poodle

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   a breed of intelligent dog with a dense, curly coat, occurring in standard, miniature, and toy sizes

   The white poodle waited patiently while its curly coat was trimmed.

2. 2
   noun

   disapproving: a person or organization that obediently serves someone more powerful

   Critics accused the committee of acting as the minister's poodle.

Appears in

Simplified etymology

Poodle entered English in the early 19th century from German Pudelhund, literally “puddle hound.” The name reflects the breed’s use in retrieving waterfowl.

From German Pudel, shortened from Pudelhund, literally a dog associated with splashing in water; compare German pudeln, 'splash.' The breed was developed as a water retriever. The servile-person sense compares an attendant to a trained pet.

Topics

External links

• Google Images
• Cambridge Dictionary
• Wiktionary