Word
breeding
Phoneticsbreed·ing, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈbɹidɪŋ/
UK/bɹˈiːdɪŋ/
Definitions
01animal reproduction
B2 · Upper Intermediate Uncountable noun Science
n. the process of producing young animals or plants.
n. the production of offspring by animals or plants; the process of sexual reproduction in a biological context.
“The spring is the main breeding season for most birds in this forest.”
“Scientists are studying the breeding habits of these endangered sea turtles to ensure the population can recover in the wild.”
Synonyms
02controlled production of animals
B2 · Upper Intermediate Uncountable noun
n. the activity of keeping animals or plants to produce new ones with specific qualities.
n. the controlled propagation of animals or plants, typically to improve or maintain specific genetic traits.
“He spent years in horse breeding to produce the fastest racers.”
“Selective breeding has resulted in crop varieties that are significantly more resistant to drought and common pests.”
Synonyms
03polite manners
C1 · Advanced Uncountable noun Formal
n. good manners that come from a high social class or a good education.
n. the result of good upbringing or social standing, manifested in refined manners and etiquette.
“Her quiet politeness showed her excellent breeding.”
“The diplomat's impeccable breeding was evident in the way he handled the awkward social blunder with grace and discretion.”
Synonyms
Usage
Often used in the context of 'breeding grounds' or 'selective breeding'.
Real-World Examples
“It argues that neither white nor black storks were ever native breeding birds in England.” “The wolf pack consists of an extended family, with the mother and father—the dominant female and male, called the “breeding pair”—producing pups yearly.” “These zones are meant to protect whales when they are most active, during the breeding season, for example.” Word family
NOUN
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Common
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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