# terrier

/ˈtɛɹiɝ/ (US) · /tˈɛɹɪɐ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/terrier
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

a small, energetic type of dog that was originally bred to hunt animals that live in holes in the ground.

For teachers: any of several breeds of small, active dogs originally developed for hunting vermin or burrowing animals. Often used as a generic descriptor for various small, wire-haired breeds.

## Examples

- The little terrier barked loudly at the squirrel in the garden.
- Farmers traditionally kept a terrier on the property to control the population of rats and other pests.
- While many modern terriers are primarily companion animals, they still retain the tenacious and feisty temperament required for their historical role as working hunters.

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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.