bloodhound

[ bluhd-hound ]

noun

1. one of a breed of medium- to large-sized dogs, usually having a black-and-tan coat, very long ears, loose skin, and an acute sense of smell: used chiefly for following human scents.
2. a person who is a steadfast pursuer.

bloodhound

/ ˈblʌdˌhaʊnd /

noun

1. a large breed of hound having a smooth glossy coat of red, tan, or black and loose wrinkled skin on its head: formerly much used in tracking and police work
2. informal.
   a detective

Word History and Origins

Origin of bloodhound¹

First recorded in 1300–50, bloodhound is from the Middle English word blod-hound. See blood, hound ¹

Example Sentences

In graphic detail, Biden spoke of dangerous drug deals in Los Angeles’ Skid Row, driving while high and his time as a “bloodhound” chasing crack in Nashville.

From Los Angeles Times

Mister, a bloodhound who won a merit award in his breed Monday, also puts his breed’s ancient instincts to work.

From Seattle Times

But a petit basset griffon Vendéen took best in show for the first time last year, as did a bloodhound in 2022.

From Seattle Times

Sherlock Holmes could have used a pug, not his favored bloodhound, to sniff out clues and gotten the same results, a study suggests.

From Science Magazine

Why did Sherlock Holmes employ a bloodhound to sniff out clues, and not a pug?

From Science Magazine

Related Words

• agent
• informer
• police officer
• private eye
• private investigator
• prosecutor
• reporter
• sleuth
• spy