canine
KAY-nyne
/ˈkeɪnaɪn/
Relating to or characteristic of dogs or the dog family (Canidae); also a pointed tooth.
Scientific and formal term for anything pertaining to dogs.
The story behind the word. From Latin 'caninus', derived from 'canis' (dog). The pointed teeth are named canines because they resemble a dog's prominent fangs.
Word relationships
- dog-like: Dog-like describes physical resemblance, whereas canine is the formal technical adjective.
- feline: Feline pertains to cats, whereas canine pertains to dogs.
Commonly confused with
- Feline: Canine relates to dogs; feline relates to cats.
Word family
- canid (noun): Any mammal of the dog family Canidae.
Collocations
- canine unit
- canine behavior
- canine tooth
Example sentences
- "The clinic specializes in canine nutrition and preventive healthcare." Veterinary medicine
- "The dentist noted that the dog had a fractured upper canine tooth." Anatomy
Memory hook
CANINE matches the scientific family CANIDAE. Dog-like, dog family, sharp fang.
When not to use
Avoid in casual conversation when 'dog' or 'dog's' sounds more natural.
Fun facts
- Humans have four canine teeth, named for their resemblance to dog teeth.
Explore more words
feline, veterinary, molar, veterinarian, carnivore, zoonotic
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