dog-collar

dog-collar

A priest wears a simple black dog-collar with his white shirt.

Definition
  1. Noun:
    • A collar for a dog: a band or strap worn around the neck of a dog, often used for identification, restraint, or control.
    • A clerical collar: a stiff, narrow, white collar worn by some Christian clergy, especially in Anglican, Catholic, or Lutheran traditions, as a part of their official vestments.
Usage Examples

  • A collar for a dog:

    • She attached the leash to the dog-collar before taking her pet for a walk. (A band worn around a dog's neck for control.)
    • The dog-collar had a metal tag with the owner's address. (An identification collar for a dog.)

  • A clerical collar:

    • The priest wore a simple black shirt with a white dog-collar. (A clerical collar indicating his religious role.)
    • Many pastors wear a dog-collar as a symbol of their office during services. (A formal clerical vestment.)
Advanced Usage

  • "dog-collar" as a symbol of authority or service: In religious contexts, the dog-collar represents a clergy member's dedication and commitment to their faith.

    • The bishop's dog-collar was made of fine linen, signifying his high rank. (A clerical collar denoting clerical status.)

  • "to wear the dog-collar": to serve as a clergy member.

    • After years of study, he finally wore the dog-collar as a priest. (He officially began his clerical duties.)
Variants and Related Words
  • Dog collar (n, alternative spelling): the same term, often written as two words.
    • The store sells a variety of dog collars for different breeds. (Collars for dogs.)
  • Clerical collar (n): a synonym for the religious garment.
    • The deacon adjusted his clerical collar before the ceremony. (A white collar worn by clergy.)
Synonyms
  • For a dog's collar: neckband, leash strap, identification band.
  • For a clerical collar: Roman collar, clergy collar, priest's collar.
Related Idioms

  • "to be under the dog-collar": (informal, rare) to be under the authority or control of a clergy member.

    • The parishioners lived under the dog-collar of the strict vicar. (They were under the priest's authority.)

  • "to tighten the dog-collar": (figurative) to increase control or pressure.

    • The manager tightened the dog-collar on his employees by enforcing strict deadlines. (He increased control over them.)