rhodesian ridgeback: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Low-frequencyFormal, Technical (Cynological)
Quick answer
What does “rhodesian ridgeback” mean?
A large dog breed, originally from southern Africa, characterized by a distinctive ridge of hair along its back that grows in the opposite direction to the rest of the coat.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A large dog breed, originally from southern Africa, characterized by a distinctive ridge of hair along its back that grows in the opposite direction to the rest of the coat.
A hunting and guard dog breed developed in Southern Africa (historically Rhodesia) to hunt large game, notably lions. It is known for its loyalty, strength, and the unique ridge on its back.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Usage is identical; no significant lexical or spelling differences. The breed standard terminology is international.
Connotations
Neutral breed designation. May carry historical connotations due to the colonial origin of the name 'Rhodesian'.
Frequency
Equally low-frequency in both varieties, used primarily in dog breed contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “rhodesian ridgeback” in a Sentence
The [adjective] Rhodesian Ridgeback [verb].Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “rhodesian ridgeback” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- He has a typical Rhodesian Ridgeback temperament.
American English
- We're looking for a Rhodesian Ridgeback breeder.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare, except in pet industry or breeding business contexts.
Academic
Used in zoology, veterinary science, or historical studies of dog breeds.
Everyday
Used by dog enthusiasts, in pet ownership conversations, or at dog shows.
Technical
Standard term in cynology (the study of dogs) and kennel club classifications.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “rhodesian ridgeback”
Neutral
Weak
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “rhodesian ridgeback”
- Misspelling as 'Roadesian Ridgeback' or 'Rhodisian Ridgeback'. Using lowercase ('rhodesian ridgeback') in formal writing.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
They can be, with proper training and socialization. They are loyal but are strong-willed, powerful dogs that require an experienced owner.
The ridge is a genetic trait inherited from semi-wild indigenous African dogs. Its exact functional purpose is not definitively known.
They were bred by European settlers in Southern Africa to hunt large game, most famously to corner lions, hence the nickname 'African Lion Dog'.
Yes, it remains the official breed name globally, though some advocate for a name change due to the colonial associations of 'Rhodesian'.
A large dog breed, originally from southern Africa, characterized by a distinctive ridge of hair along its back that grows in the opposite direction to the rest of the coat.
Rhodesian ridgeback is usually formal, technical (cynological) in register.
Rhodesian ridgeback: in British English it is pronounced /rəʊˌdiːʒən ˈrɪdʒbæk/, and in American English it is pronounced /roʊˌdiːʒən ˈrɪdʒbæk/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a dog with a RIDGE on its BACK, riding on a RHODES (a type of road) in Africa.
Conceptual Metaphor
The ridge is often metaphorically described as a 'crown' or 'crest', symbolising nobility and strength.
Practice
Quiz
What is the most defining physical feature of a Rhodesian Ridgeback?