water spaniel

noun

1. either of two breeds of spaniels, used for retrieving waterfowl.

water spaniel

noun

1. either of two large curly-coated breeds of spaniel (the Irish and the American), which are used for hunting waterfowl See also Irish water spaniel

Word History and Origins

Origin of water spaniel¹

First recorded in 1560–70

Example Sentences

The first litter of golden retrievers was born in 1868 to a Tweed water spaniel, a breed now extinct, and yellow wavy-coated retriever.

From BBC

The Irish water spaniel, wire fox terrier, Labrador, and basset hound also sport mugs that are scientifically proven to pull at our heartstrings.

From Salon

The Irish water spaniel, looking a bit nervous, has been sent away by the judge!

From New York Times

“Irish water spaniels are known as the clown of the gundog breed, and he’s no exception,” she says.

From The Guardian

Others include the Great Dane in Pennsylvania and the American water spaniel in Wisconsin.

From Washington Times