Definition

Proper noun 1. The capital city of Tibet: Lhasa is a major city in China, historically the religious and political center of Tibet. 2. A breed of dog: A Lhasa (or Lhasa Apso) is a small, long-haired dog breed originally from Tibet.

Usage Examples

• As a city:
  • Many pilgrims travel to Lhasa to visit the Potala Palace.
  • The climate in Lhasa is characterized by strong sunlight and cool temperatures.
• As a dog breed:
  • She has a Lhasa that requires daily grooming.
  • The Lhasa is known for its alert and confident nature.

Advanced Usage

• "Lhasa Apso": The full name for the dog breed, often used interchangeably with "Lhasa."
  • The Lhasa Apso was bred as a watchdog in Tibetan monasteries.

Variants and Related Words

• Lhasa Apso (n): The full breed name for the dog.
• Lhasan (adj): Relating to Lhasa (less common).
  • The Lhasan tradition is deeply spiritual.

Synonyms

• For the city: The Forbidden City (historical/poetic name).
• For the dog: Lhasa Apso, Tibetan terrier (note: Tibetan Terrier is a distinct but related breed).

Notes on Different Meanings

The word "Lhasa" has two distinct primary meanings: one geographical (the city) and one related to animal breeds (the dog). Context always makes it clear which is intended. The city is a proper noun and is always capitalized. The dog breed name is also typically capitalized.

Noun

1. a breed of terrier having a long heavy coat raised in Tibet as watchdogs
2. the sacred city of Lamaism; known as the Forbidden City for its former inaccessibility and hostility to strangers