springer: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1technical, formal, specialised
Quick answer
What does “springer” mean?
A type of spaniel dog, traditionally used for flushing game out of cover.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A type of spaniel dog, traditionally used for flushing game out of cover.
An architectural term for the lowest stone of an arch, which rests on the impost; any person, animal, or device that springs or causes something to spring; a cow or heifer close to giving birth.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Both varieties use 'springer' primarily for the dog breed. In architecture, the term is used internationally. The use for a cow near calving is more common in British agricultural contexts.
Connotations
In the UK, 'springer' often has stronger rural/agricultural associations beyond just dogs. In the US, it is overwhelmingly associated with the dog breed.
Frequency
More frequent in the UK, particularly in rural areas, due to its agricultural sense. In the US, its usage is largely confined to dog enthusiasts and specific technical fields.
Grammar
How to Use “springer” in a Sentence
The [Noun] served as a springer for the vault.They own a [Adjective] springer.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “springer” 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
- [Not applicable as a standalone adjective]
American English
- [Not applicable as a standalone adjective]
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Virtually unused.
Academic
Used in history of architecture and agricultural science papers.
Everyday
Almost exclusively refers to the dog breed in casual conversation.
Technical
Specific, precise meanings in architecture (part of an arch) and veterinary/agricultural contexts (cow close to calving).
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “springer”
- Misspelling as 'springier' (which means 'more springy').
- Using 'springer' as a general term for any energetic person (non-standard).
- Confusing 'springer spaniel' with 'cocker spaniel'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, they are typically energetic, intelligent, and affectionate dogs, but they require plenty of exercise.
The springer is the lowest stone at the base of an arch where the curve begins. The keystone is the central, topmost stone that locks the arch in place.
No, 'springer' is exclusively a noun in standard English. The related verb is 'to spring'.
The name derives from their historical hunting role of 'springing' (flushing) game birds out of cover.
A type of spaniel dog, traditionally used for flushing game out of cover.
Springer is usually technical, formal, specialised in register.
Springer: in British English it is pronounced /ˈsprɪŋə(r)/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈsprɪŋər/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[No common idioms for 'springer' as a single word]”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a SPRINGER spaniel that SPRINGS into action to flush out birds.
Conceptual Metaphor
SOURCE/FOUNDATION (architectural springer as the starting point of an arch).
Practice
Quiz
In which field would the term 'springer' most likely refer to a cow?