mexican hairless: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Specialized / Formal (in dog-breeding contexts), Neutral (general knowledge)
Quick answer
What does “mexican hairless” mean?
A breed of dog, specifically the Xoloitzcuintli, originating in Mexico, characterized by having very little to no hair.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A breed of dog, specifically the Xoloitzcuintli, originating in Mexico, characterized by having very little to no hair.
Can refer informally to any hairless dog breed from the region, but is a formal breed name for the Xolo (pronounced show-low). The term may also be used metaphorically to describe something hairless in appearance.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning. The breed is equally recognized in both kennel clubs.
Connotations
Neutral; refers specifically to the dog breed.
Frequency
Low frequency in general language, but standard within canine/fancier contexts in both regions.
Grammar
How to Use “mexican hairless” in a Sentence
The Mexican hairless [verb: is/barks/looks]...Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “mexican hairless” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- [Not applicable as a verb]
American English
- [Not applicable as a verb]
adverb
British English
- [Not applicable as an adverb]
American English
- [Not applicable as an adverb]
adjective
British English
- [Used attributively, e.g., 'a Mexican hairless puppy']
American English
- [Used attributively, e.g., 'a Mexican hairless rescue']
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare, except in pet industry marketing.
Academic
Used in anthropology, zoology, or history discussing pre-Columbian cultures.
Everyday
Used when discussing dog breeds or pets.
Technical
Standard term in veterinary science and canine genetics.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “mexican hairless”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “mexican hairless”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “mexican hairless”
- Using lowercase ('mexican hairless') in formal breed contexts.
- Confusing it with other hairless breeds like the Chinese Crested.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, 'Mexican hairless' is the common English name for the Xoloitzcuintli breed.
No, the breed comes in three sizes and two varieties: hairless and coated. The coated variety has a short, flat coat.
The hairless variety has a dominant gene that results in the complete or near-complete absence of hair, giving them a unique, smooth appearance.
They are intelligent, loyal, and often described as calm, but their sensitive skin requires protection from sun and cold, making them specialized pets.
A breed of dog, specifically the Xoloitzcuintli, originating in Mexico, characterized by having very little to no hair.
Mexican hairless is usually specialized / formal (in dog-breeding contexts), neutral (general knowledge) in register.
Mexican hairless: in British English it is pronounced /ˈmek.sɪ.kən ˈheə.ləs/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈmek.sɪ.kən ˈher.ləs/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[No common idioms for this specific term]”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a MAP of Mexico shaped like a dog with no hair.
Conceptual Metaphor
HAIRLESSNESS IS ANCIENT/PRIMITIVE (due to the breed's ancient origins).
Practice
Quiz
What is a 'Mexican hairless'?