Definition

1. Noun:
   • A breed of very small poodle: A "toy poodle" is a specific variety of the poodle breed, characterized by its extremely small size. It is one of the size classifications for poodles, which also include standard and miniature.

Usage

• The term "toy poodle" is used to specifically refer to the smallest size category of the poodle breed. It functions as a compound noun where "toy" describes the diminutive size of the poodle.

Examples

• Noun:
  • She owns a charming toy poodle that fits perfectly on her lap.
  • Toy poodles are known for their intelligence and elegant appearance despite their small stature.

Advanced Usage

• The term is often used in formal breed standards and dog show contexts to designate the size category.
  • The entry for the poodle competition is divided into classes: standard, miniature, and toy poodle.

Variants and Related Words

• Poodle (noun): The general breed name. Toy, miniature, and standard are its size variants.
• Toy breed (noun): A general category for very small dog breeds, which includes the toy poodle.

Synonyms

• Miniature poodle: Note: While related, "miniature poodle" is a distinct, slightly larger size category and is not a perfect synonym for "toy poodle."

Notes on Meaning

• The meaning of "toy poodle" is specific and fixed, referring exclusively to the small breed variety. The word "toy" in this compound does not imply the dog is a plaything but denotes its classification as a very small companion animal.

Noun

1. the breed of very small poodles