Definition

1. Noun:
   • A breed of very small dog: A chihuahua is an old breed of tiny, short-haired dog with distinctive protruding eyes, originating from Mexico and believed to predate Aztec civilization.
   • A state in Mexico: Chihuahua is a large state in northern Mexico, characterized mostly by high plateau terrain.
   • A city in Mexico: Chihuahua is also the name of the capital city of the state of Chihuahua, serving as a major commercial center for northern Mexico.

Usage Examples

• Noun (Dog breed):
  • She carries her chihuahua in a special purse.
  • Chihuahuas are known for their loyal but sometimes nervous temperament.
• Noun (Mexican state):
  • Copper mining is an important industry in Chihuahua.
  • The state of Chihuahua shares a long border with the United States.
• Noun (Mexican city):
  • The Cathedral of Chihuahua is a famous landmark.
  • We flew into the city of Chihuahua to begin our tour.

Advanced Usage

• The term is typically capitalized when referring to the geographical locations (the state or city).
• When referring to the dog breed, it is often but not always capitalized. Both "Chihuahua" and "chihuahua" are commonly accepted.

Variants and Related Words

• Chihuahuan (adjective): Relating to the state, city, or region of Chihuahua.
  • The Chihuahuan Desert is the largest desert in North America.

Synonyms

• Toy dog (for the breed): A general term for very small dog breeds kept as companions.
• (For the locations, there are no direct synonyms, as they are proper nouns.)

Related Phrases

• Chihuahua mix: A dog that is part Chihuahua and part another breed.
  • The shelter has several adorable Chihuahua mixes for adoption.
• Apple-head Chihuahua: A common term for a Chihuahua with a very rounded, apple-shaped skull.
  • She prefers the look of an apple-head chihuahua.

Noun

1. an old breed of tiny short-haired dog with protruding eyes from Mexico held to antedate Aztec civilization
2. a state in northern Mexico; mostly high plateau
3. a city in northern Mexico in the state of Chihuahua; commercial center of northern Mexico