retriever

[ ri-tree-ver ]

noun

1. a person or thing that retrieves.
2. one of any of several breeds of dogs having a coarse, thick, oily coat, trained to retrieve game.
3. any dog trained to retrieve game.

retriever

/ rɪˈtriːvə /

noun

1. one of a breed of large gun dogs that can be trained to retrieve game See golden retriever Labrador retriever Chesapeake Bay retriever curly-coated retriever flat-coated retriever
2. any dog used to retrieve shot game
3. a person or thing that retrieves

Word History and Origins

Origin of retriever¹

First recorded in 1480–90; retrieve + -er ¹

Example Sentences

Ami, a black retriever, gives every suitcase that rolls in on the baggage claim belts a good sniff on all sides.

From BBC

Inspectors eventually were allowed in, and found two dead puppies and a severely emaciated golden retriever among other suffering dogs, according to U.S.

From Los Angeles Times

I was certain it was a result of my rambunctious golden retriever smashing into my legs.

From Los Angeles Times

According to the announcement, he was surrounded by his wife of 44 years, actress and feminist icon Marlo Thomas, his children, grandchildren and “beloved golden retriever.”

From Salon

Thick-coated breeds and those with double coats like chow chows, Alaskan huskies, and golden retrievers are better at conserving heat in cool temperatures.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• beagle