wire-haired
/'wai he d/
Definition
Adjective 1. Having stiff, coarse, and wiry hair: Describes a type of coat, especially in dogs, where the individual hairs are stiff, rough, and springy to the touch, resembling wire. This coat type is often dense and provides protection from weather and underbrush.
Usage
The adjective "wire-haired" is used almost exclusively to describe the coat texture of certain animal breeds, most commonly dogs. It is typically placed before the noun it modifies. It describes a specific, bred-for characteristic.
Examples
- The wire-haired dachshund is a sturdy and energetic hunting dog.
- She prefers wire-haired breeds like the German Wirehaired Pointer for their rugged appearance and low-shedding coats.
- The dog's wire-haired coat was perfect for protecting it from the thorny bushes.
Advanced Usage
- Breed Standard Terminology: In dog breeding and showing, "wire-haired" is a formal coat type classification. A proper show coat requires specific grooming (stripping) to maintain its correct texture.
Variants and Related Words
- Wirehaired (adjective): An alternative, often single-word spelling with the same meaning.
- Wirehair (noun): An informal shortening used to refer to a wire-haired dog, especially specific breeds.
Synonyms
- Coarse-coated: Having a rough-textured coat.
- Bristly: Having short, stiff hairs.
- Rough-coated: Having a harsh, textured coat (a common synonym in breed descriptions).
Antonyms
- Smooth-haired: Having a short, sleek, and flat coat.
- Silky-haired: Having a long, soft, and glossy coat.
- Long-haired: Having long fur, which is typically soft, not wiry.
Adjective
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(especially of dogs) having stiff wiry hair
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a wire-haired terrier
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