pure-blooded
Definition
- Adjective:
- Of unmixed ancestry: "pure-blooded" describes an animal, especially a horse or dog, that has ancestors of a single recognized breed without any cross-breeding. It can also refer to a human being whose ancestors are all from the same ethnic or racial group.
Usage Examples
- (Horses with an entirely Arabian lineage.)
- (Referring to humans with unmixed ancestry.)
- (A dog with a documented, unmixed breed line.)
Advanced Usage
"Pure-blooded" in genetics: Often used to emphasize the absence of hybridization in a species or breed.
- The conservation program focuses on preserving pure-blooded specimens of the endangered wildcat. (Animals without any domestic cat ancestry.)
"Pure-blooded" in metaphorical contexts: Can describe something that is entirely characteristic of a particular type or quality.
- He is a pure-blooded romantic, believing in love at first sight. (He embodies the romantic archetype completely.)
Variants and Related Words
Pure-blood (noun): an individual of unmixed ancestry.
- The ancient tribe considered themselves pure-bloods, rejecting outsiders. (People with no foreign ancestry.)
Pureblood (noun, alternative spelling): same as "pure-blood," often used in fantasy literature (e.g., in Harry Potter).
- In the wizarding world, a pureblood is a witch or wizard with no Muggle ancestors. (A person of entirely magical lineage.)
Synonyms
- Thoroughbred: specifically used for horses of pure breed, but also for people of refined upbringing.
- Pedigreed: having a documented line of descent, especially for animals.
- Full-blooded: having ancestors of a single breed or type.
Related Idioms
Pure-blooded stock: animals or people considered to have the best genetic heritage.
- The farm prides itself on its pure-blooded stock of cattle. (Cattle with a long, unadulterated lineage.)
To be of pure blood: an older, formal expression meaning to have unmixed ancestry.
- The knight was of pure blood, born from a noble line. (He had no commoner ancestors.)