Canine: Definition, Meaning, and Usage Guide

Canine (/ˈkeɪnaɪn/) derives from Latin canis (dog). It describes things related to dogs or dog-like traits.

As an Adjective

• Canine teeth: pointed front teeth for tearing food.
• Canine distemper: a serious viral infection in dogs.

As a Noun

• Refers to a dog or a member of the Canidae family (wolves, foxes, jackals).

Examples

• The police canine unit tracked the escaped convict.
• My neighbor has a beautiful canine named Sparky.
• The canine distemper outbreak concerns dog owners.
• The canine tooth is crucial for tearing food.

Canine is a versatile word useful in many contexts.