mongrel — a dog of mixed breed; something that is a mixture of different elements
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: a dog of mixed breed; something that is a mixture of different elements
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈmʌŋɡrəl/
Example Sentences
- The mongrel turned out to be the smartest dog in the training class.
- My mongrel thinks he's a guard dog, but he hides behind me when the doorbell rings.
- This car is a mongrel of different parts from various manufacturers.
mongrel
NOUN[/ˈmʌŋɡrəl/]
a dog of mixed breed; something that is a mixture of different elements
The shelter's lovable mongrel had floppy ears, a curly tail, and spots from who-knows-where.
The mongrels quarrel over the barrel!
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
Mongrel derives from Middle English, combining 'mong' (meaning mixture or blend) with the diminutive suffix '-rel' (denoting something small). Originally signifying 'a small mixture,' the term gradually specialized to describe a dog of mixed or uncertain breed.
Breakdown
mong- (mixture, blend) + -rel (diminutive suffix indicating smallness). The root 'mong' relates to mixing or mingling, while '-rel' functions as a productive Middle English suffix for forming diminutives.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The mongrel turned out to be the smartest dog in the training class.”
“My mongrel thinks he's a guard dog, but he hides behind me when the doorbell rings.”
“This car is a mongrel of different parts from various manufacturers.”
“The mongrel at the park somehow convinced every owner to give him treats.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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