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Definition of spaniel

spaniel

/ˈspæn.jəl/
span · iel
Plural:spaniels
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spaniel Lexical Profile

spaniel Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A dog of various breeds originally developed for flushing and retrieving game, typically characterized by a long silky coat, drooping ears, and a friendly disposition.

Example

"The family adopted a lively cocker spaniel that quickly learned to retrieve tennis balls from the pond."

2

A person who is highly submissive, fawning, or overly eager to please others.

Example

"He refused to act as a mere spaniel to the wealthy executives, choosing instead to voice his honest criticisms."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for spaniel

• Nearby Words

spalax
spam
spanakopita
spaniel
spanish mackerel
spanner
sparaxis

Word Origin & Etymology

Late Middle English: from Old French 'espaigneul', literally meaning 'Spanish (dog)', from 'Espaigne' (Spain), referencing the geographic origin of the ancestral breed.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Spaniel. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 13, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/spaniel
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