fox-terrier

A family plays fetch with their fox-terrier in the backyard.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A breed of dog: "fox-terrier" refers to a small, energetic breed of dog originally bred for hunting foxes. They have a short, smooth or wiry coat, and are known for their intelligence and lively temperament.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • She adopted a fox-terrier from the local animal shelter. (A small dog of the fox-terrier breed.)
  • The fox-terrier chased the ball with great enthusiasm. (The dog displayed typical energetic behavior.)

Advanced Usage

• "Fox-terrier" as a modifier: Used to describe traits or characteristics associated with this breed.
  • His fox-terrier-like persistence made him a successful salesperson. (He showed the determined, tenacious qualities of the breed.)

Variants and Related Words

• Fox-terrier (n): The standard spelling; no common variants exist.
• Wire fox-terrier (n): A subtype with a wiry, rough coat.
  • The wire fox-terrier has a distinctive beard and eyebrows. (A specific variety of the breed.)
• Smooth fox-terrier (n): A subtype with a short, smooth coat.
  • The smooth fox-terrier is easier to groom than the wire variety. (Another variety of the breed.)

Synonyms

• Terrier: a general category of dogs to which the fox-terrier belongs.
• Hunting dog: a dog bred for hunting, though this term is broader.

Related Idioms

• None specifically associated with "fox-terrier."

Phrasal Verbs

• None specifically associated with "fox-terrier."