house-train

verb

ˈhau̇s-ˌtrān How to pronounce house-train (audio)
house-trained; house-training; house-trains

transitive verb

chiefly British
: housebreak

Examples of house-train in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Her foster dad tells us that Anika is house-trained and crate trained. — The Republic, The Arizona Republic, 21 Apr. 2023 The dogs are crate-trained but not house-trained and require a lot of attention and exercise. — Cody Godwin, USA Today, 29 Jan. 2026 Its bleak story and visceral body horror were apparently a turn-off for audiences who preferred their aliens house-trained and non-lethal. — Richard Edwards, Space.com, 21 Nov. 2025 According to Percy's adoption profile, he is neutered, microchipped, up to date on his vaccinations, and house-trained. — Kelli Bender, PEOPLE, 12 Jan. 2026 According to The Animal Foundation, older dogs are often calmer, already house-trained, and grateful for a second chance at a loving home. — David Faris, MSNBC Newsweek, 11 Apr. 2025 Shelters have desirable pets of every size and age—many who have lived in homes, are house-trained, already spayed or neutered, vaccinated, and ready to become part of your family—all for a fraction of the cost of buying from a breeder or pet store. — News Release, San Diego Union-Tribune, 4 Dec. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1924, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of house-train was in 1924

Rhymes for house-train

See All Rhymes for house-train

Browse Nearby Words

house trailer
house-train
house trap
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“House-train.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/house-train. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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