puppy

noun

pup·​py ˈpə-pē How to pronounce puppy (audio)
plural puppies
Synonyms of puppynext
1
: a young domestic dog
specifically : one less than a year old
2
: baby sense 4
a computer that is one fast puppy
puppyhood
ˈpə-pē-ˌhu̇d How to pronounce puppy (audio)
noun
puppyish
ˈpə-pē-ish How to pronounce puppy (audio)
adjective
puppylike
ˈpə-pē-ˌlīk How to pronounce puppy (audio)
adjective

Examples of puppy in a Sentence

Our dog just had four puppies.
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.
Filters that transform users into playful characters, like elves or puppies, will remain available for young people. — Chloe Veltman, NPR, 25 Oct. 2026 But yes, getting to cuddle a puppy is obviously part of the appeal. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 23 Oct. 2026 The audience can watch the puppies grow day by day and track their milestones alongside Yle's science journalists and the breeder. — ABC News, 22 Oct. 2026 The game settled down a bit after that first rotation, but Wilson played most of his debut with the well-meaning gracelessness of a puppy who has yet to grow into his paws. — Julia Poe, Chicago Tribune, 22 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for puppy

Word History

Etymology

Middle English popi, from Middle French poupée doll, toy, from *poupe

First Known Use

1567, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of puppy was in 1567

Phrases Containing puppy

Rhymes for puppy

See All Rhymes for puppy

Browse Nearby Words

Puppis
puppy
puppy dog
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Puppy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/puppy. Accessed 28 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

puppy

noun
pup·​py ˈpəp-ē How to pronounce puppy (audio)
plural puppies
: a young domestic dog
especially : one less than a year old

More from Merriam-Webster on puppy

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for puppy

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