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canine

KAY-nyn /ˈkeɪnaɪn/

nounadjectiveC1GRESATACTTOEFL

scientificformalgeneral

Relating to or resembling a dog or other member of the dog family (Canidae); or (as a noun) a dog, or one of the pointed teeth next to the incisors.

Often used in scientific, medical, or law enforcement contexts (e.g., 'K9 unit') to sound more formal or precise than 'dog'.

The story behind the word. Derived directly from the Latin 'canis', meaning dog. The suffix '-ine' means 'of or pertaining to'. Thus, 'canine' literally means 'pertaining to a dog'. It entered English in the 17th century as scholars sought to categorize the animal kingdom using Latin-based terms.

Word relationships

dog: 'Dog' is the common, friendly term, while 'canine' is the scientific, formal, or dental term.
hound: 'Hound' specifically refers to hunting dogs, whereas 'canine' covers the entire biological family.

feline: Relating to cats (the natural biological counterpart in domestic discussions).

Commonly confused with

K9: 'K9' is a homophonic abbreviation specifically used for police, military, or working dog units, whereas 'canine' is the full word.

Word family

canid (noun): A mammal of the dog family (Canidae).

Collocations

canine companion
canine teeth
police canine

Example sentences

"The officer and his canine partner successfully tracked the suspect through the dense woods." A police department press release.
"Human beings have four canine teeth, which are designed for tearing food." A dental health pamphlet.

Memory hook

Think of the sharp 'canine' teeth that dogs use to chew. Both the teeth and the animal share the name. Canines have canine teeth.

When not to use

Avoid using in casual, warm conversation where 'dog' or 'puppy' would sound much friendlier.

Fun facts

The biological family Canidae includes not only domestic dogs, but also wolves, foxes, jackals, dingoes, and coyotes.