# mutt

/ˈmət/ (US) · /mˈʌt/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/mutt
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

a dog that is a mix of different breeds. People also use this word in a funny or slightly rude way to describe a person who is not pure or has mixed heritage.

For teachers: a dog of mixed breed or a person of mixed racial or ethnic descent. Often carries a derogatory or humorous connotation depending on the speaker's intent and the social context.

## Examples

- The mutt ran after the ball in the park.
- The rescue center is full of mutts waiting for a new home and a good meal.
- While some people find the term 'mutt' endearing when applied to a dog, its use to describe a person can be perceived as a subtle form of racial slur.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.