spaniel
Noun: 1. A type of dog breed: Any of several breeds of small to medium-sized gun dogs characterized by a long, silky coat, long, drooping ears, and a gentle, affectionate temperament. They were originally bred for flushing game from dense brush. 2. (Archaic/Figurative) A submissive person: A person who is overly obedient or flattering.
The word "spaniel" is used primarily as a count noun to refer to a dog of this type. The figurative sense is now rare and typically used in literary contexts.
Examples: * Noun (Breed): * The spaniel eagerly retrieved the duck from the water. * She owns a lovely Cavalier King Charles spaniel. * Several spaniels were entered in the dog show. * Noun (Figurative): * (Archaic) He was a mere spaniel to the powerful lord.
- "To spaniel" (Archaic Verb): To follow or fawn upon someone obsequiously, like a spaniel.
- Example: He would spaniel at his master's heels, hoping for a favor.
- Cocker Spaniel: A specific breed of spaniel, originally used for hunting woodcock.
- Springer Spaniel: A specific breed of spaniel, known for "springing" or flushing game.
- Spaniel-like (adj.): Having the gentle, affectionate, or flattering characteristics associated with a spaniel.
- For the dog: Gun dog, bird dog, flushing dog.
- For the figurative sense (archaic): Sycophant, toady, flatterer, lackey.
- (As) faithful as a spaniel: An expression denoting extreme loyalty and devotion.
- Example: He remained as faithful as a spaniel throughout all their difficulties.
- any of several breeds of small to medium-sized gun dogs with a long silky coat and long frilled ears