shih-tzu: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1neutral
Quick answer
What does “shih-tzu” mean?
A small toy dog breed of Tibetan origin, characterized by a long, silky coat, a short muzzle, and a tail carried curled over the back.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A small toy dog breed of Tibetan origin, characterized by a long, silky coat, a short muzzle, and a tail carried curled over the back.
Any individual dog of this breed; figuratively, may be used to refer to something small, fluffy, or pampered.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant lexical differences. Spelling is consistent, though punctuation (hyphen) may occasionally be omitted in informal writing in both varieties.
Connotations
Connotes a pampered, companionable lapdog in both cultures. Slightly more associated with urban, domestic settings.
Frequency
Equally recognizable and used with similar frequency in dog-related contexts in both the UK and US.
Grammar
How to Use “shih-tzu” in a Sentence
[own/have/groom] a shih-tzuThe shih-tzu [is/barks/sleeps]Vocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare, except in pet industry, breeding, or veterinary business contexts.
Academic
Found in texts on cynology, animal husbandry, or cultural history.
Everyday
Common in conversations about pets, dog breeds, and family life.
Technical
Used in veterinary medicine, dog show terminology, and breed standards.
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “shih-tzu”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “shih-tzu”
- Misspelling: 'shitsu', 'shih tzu' (without hyphen), 'shihtzu'.
- Incorrect plural: 'shih-tzu' (unchanged). Correct plural: 'shih-tzus'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
In standard dictionaries, it is hyphenated (shih-tzu), but in informal usage, the hyphen is sometimes omitted.
The correct plural is 'shih-tzus'. The 's' is added to the end of the word.
Generally, yes. They are known as affectionate, friendly, and sturdy companion dogs, but supervision with young children is always recommended.
In British English, it's approximately 'shee-tsoo' /ˌʃiːˈtsuː/. In American English, it's often 'SHEE-tsoo' /ˈʃiːˌtsuː/.
A small toy dog breed of Tibetan origin, characterized by a long, silky coat, a short muzzle, and a tail carried curled over the back.
Shih-tzu is usually neutral in register.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[No common idioms specific to the breed]”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a SHIny, silky-haired dog that likes to sHIt on your new shoes – a SHIH-TZU. (This links the sound to a memorable, if mischievous, image).
Conceptual Metaphor
A SHIH-TZU IS A LUXURIOUS ACCESSORY (due to its grooming and pampered status).
Practice
Quiz
From which language does the name 'shih-tzu' originate, and what is its approximate meaning?