terrier
UK: ˈteriə | US: ˈteriər
n. a small, energetic dog breed originally bred for hunting or digging out prey
n. (historical) a soldier or member of a territorial army
The word terrier traces back to Old French chien terrier ("earth dog"), highlighting the breed's skill in hunting underground prey like foxes or rodents. The Latin root terra (earth) evolved into French terrier, later adopted into English with the same spelling. The suffix -ier denotes function, making the term literally mean "earth-worker." Over time, the military usage (19th century) metaphorically extended the digging connotation to soldiers "rooted" in territorial defense.
The feisty terrier dug tirelessly after the rabbit.
She adopted a rescue terrier from the local shelter.
Terriers were essential for pest control on farms.
(Historical) The terrier regiment defended the coastal borders.
His terrier’s bark alerted the household to intruders.