# purebred

/ˈpjʊɹˈbɹɛd/ (US) · /pjˈʊɹɛbɹəd/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/purebred
Updated: 2026-10-15

## Definition

from parents that are both the same breed, with no mixing over many generations. You use it mostly for pets and farm animals like dogs and horses.

For teachers: having parents of the same recognized breed over several generations, without crossbreeding. Typically used for domestic animals such as dogs, horses, and cattle.

## Examples

- They own a purebred Labrador that loves swimming.
- The farmer paid extra for a purebred stallion to improve the herd's bloodline.
- Although the shelter promotes mixed-breed adoption, the waiting list for purebred rescues remains long because some owners value predictable traits.

## Usage notes

- Typically placed before the noun it modifies.

---

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.