Definition

Noun: 1. A breed of dog: A field spaniel is a specific breed of medium to large-sized spaniel, originally developed for hunting and retrieving game birds. It is characterized by a long, dense, and typically flat or slightly wavy coat, which is most commonly solid black, liver (brown), or roan. The breed is known for its endurance, gentle temperament, and skill in working in fields and water.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The field spaniel worked diligently, flushing pheasants from the thick underbrush.
  • Her field spaniel has a beautiful, glossy black coat that requires regular grooming.
  • As a versatile gundog, the field spaniel is both an excellent hunter and a loyal family companion.

Advanced Usage

• In Kennel Club Classification: The term is used formally in dog breed registries and shows. For example, "The Field Spaniel is classified in the Gundog Group by The Kennel Club (UK)."
• Historical Context: The breed's name specifies its original working environment ("field") and its type ("spaniel"), distinguishing it from other spaniels bred for different terrains, like the "water spaniel."

Variants and Related Words

• Spaniel (n): The general category of dog breeds to which the field spaniel belongs, all characterized by floppy ears and a history of hunting.
• Cocker Spaniel (n): A smaller, related spaniel breed.
• Springer Spaniel (n): Another related spaniel breed, typically larger and more energetic than the cocker.
• Sussex Spaniel (n): A distinct, low-to-the-ground spaniel breed, one of the historical breeds used in developing the modern field spaniel.

Synonyms

• Gundog (n): A general term for dogs bred to assist hunters in finding and retrieving game.
• Bird dog (n, chiefly US): A dog trained to hunt or retrieve birds.

Related Phrases

• Field work (n): The activity of hunting or retrieving game in a natural outdoor environment, which is the primary purpose for which the field spaniel was bred.
  • The field spaniel excels in field work due to its strong nose and steady temperament.

Noun

1. large usually black hunting and retrieving spaniel with a dense flat or slightly wavy coat; cross between cocker and Sussex spaniel