springer spaniel: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B2/C1Neutral to Informal
Quick answer
What does “springer spaniel” mean?
A breed of medium-sized gundog, known for its flushing or "springing" action in hunting, where it flushes game birds from cover for the hunter.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A breed of medium-sized gundog, known for its flushing or "springing" action in hunting, where it flushes game birds from cover for the hunter.
Most commonly refers to the English Springer Spaniel, a popular family pet and working dog known for its high energy, intelligence, and friendly temperament. The term can generically encompass related flushing spaniel breeds like the Welsh Springer Spaniel.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The breed is more prevalent and culturally embedded in the UK, often associated with country life and shooting. In the US, it is primarily known as a companion or show dog. 'Springer' as a standalone term is more common in UK speech.
Connotations
UK: Strong connotations of rural life, shooting sports, and a classic working dog. US: Connotations lean more towards a friendly, active family pet or a competitor in dog shows/obedience trials.
Frequency
Significantly more frequent in UK English, both in conversation and media. In US English, it is a known breed term but less common in everyday discourse outside of dog-owning circles.
Grammar
How to Use “springer spaniel” in a Sentence
[possessive] springer spanielthe springer spaniel [verb, e.g., flushed, retrieved]a springer spaniel called [name]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “springer spaniel” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- He has a classic springer spaniel look about him.
American English
- Her enthusiasm was positively springer-spaniel-like.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used in contexts of pet industry, dog breeding, veterinary services, and pet supplies.
Academic
Used in canine genetics, veterinary science, and animal behaviour studies.
Everyday
Common in discussions about pets, dog walks, training, and family life.
Technical
Used in kennel club standards, field trial regulations, and professional dog training.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “springer spaniel”
Strong
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “springer spaniel”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “springer spaniel”
- Incorrect: 'springer spanie', 'spring spaniel'. Correct: 'springer spaniel'.
- Incorrectly using it as a verb or adjective (e.g., 'the dog springer spanieled the bird').
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
The English Springer Spaniel is slightly larger, comes in liver or black with white markings, and is more common. The Welsh Springer Spaniel is a distinct breed, slightly smaller, and is always a rich red and white colour.
Yes, they are typically excellent family dogs known for being affectionate, good with children, and energetic. However, they require substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation due to their working heritage.
It is a compound noun written as two words: 'springer spaniel'. The first word is often capitalised when referring to the specific breed: 'English Springer Spaniel'.
The name derives from the dog's historic hunting role of 'springing' or flushing game (making birds take flight) from their hiding places in cover.
A breed of medium-sized gundog, known for its flushing or "springing" action in hunting, where it flushes game birds from cover for the hunter.
Springer spaniel is usually neutral to informal in register.
Springer spaniel: in British English it is pronounced /ˌsprɪŋə ˈspænjəl/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌsprɪŋər ˈspænjəl/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[none specific to the breed]”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a dog that SPRINGS into action in the fields to flush out birds - a SPRINGER SPANIEL.
Conceptual Metaphor
ENERGY IS A SPRING (evoked by 'springer' suggesting a coiled, ready-to-release energy).
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary historical function of a springer spaniel?