dog-faced

dog-faced

A small monkey with a dog-faced snout sits on a tree branch.

Definition
  1. Adjective:
    • Having a face resembling that of a dog: "dog-faced" describes an animal or person whose facial features are similar to those of a dog, typically characterized by a long snout, prominent nose, or canine-like appearance.
    • Specifically referring to certain primates: In zoology, "dog-faced" is used to describe monkeys with elongated, dog-like muzzles, such as baboons or mandrills.
Usage Examples
  • (A primate with a long, dog-like snout.)
  • (A mythical being with canine facial features.)
  • (A bat species with a muzzle resembling a dog's.)
Advanced Usage

  • "dog-faced" as a compound modifier: Used before a noun to specify a characteristic.

    • The dog-faced howler monkey is known for its loud calls. (A specific type of howler monkey with a dog-like face.)

  • In historical or literary contexts: "dog-faced" may appear in descriptions of mythical or legendary beings.

    • Ancient texts describe dog-faced men living in distant lands. (A folkloric race with canine heads.)
Variants and Related Words
  • Dogface (n): a slang term for a soldier, especially in the U.S. infantry (originating from WWII).
    • The dogface marched through the mud with his unit. (A infantry soldier.)
  • Dogfaced (adj): alternative spelling, though less common.
    • The dogfaced monkey is native to Africa. (A variation of "dog-faced".)
Synonyms
  • Canine-faced: having a face like a dog (more technical).
    • The canine-faced bat is nocturnal. (Synonymous with "dog-faced".)
  • Muzzle-faced: having a prominent snout or muzzle.
    • The muzzle-faced primate is a type of baboon. (Focuses on the elongated nose area.)
Related Idioms
  • Dog-faced is not commonly used in idioms, but it may appear in descriptive phrases:
    • A dog-faced lie (rare, meaning a blatantly false statement, akin to "a lie with a dog's face").
    • He told a dog-faced story about his past. (An exaggerated or false tale.)
Phrasal Verbs
  • No phrasal verbs are formed with "dog-faced" as it is an adjective. However, related verbs like "to dog" (to follow persistently) exist:
    • The detective dogged the suspect for days. (To follow closely.)