breeding

noun

breed·​ing ˈbrē-diŋ How to pronounce breeding (audio)
1
: the action or process of bearing or generating
2
3
a
archaic : education
she had her breeding at my father's chargeWilliam Shakespeare
b
: training in or observance of the proprieties
4
: the sexual propagation of plants or animals

Examples of breeding in a Sentence

She became involved in the breeding of sled dogs. His politeness shows good breeding. a person who lacks breeding
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The species was most commonly found along the shores of Newfoundland and in parts of Nova Scotia, although its breeding habits remain poorly documented. Scott Travers, Forbes.com, 13 Apr. 2025 Dump out the water, which mimics the natural process of a breeding pond drying out before a tadpole can metamorphosize into a frog, says Johnson. Arricca Elin Sansone, Southern Living, 8 Apr. 2025 The number dropped to 705,000 on March 25, during the sixth week of migration, but that’s to be expected as the birds start to head north for breeding. Sarah Kuta, Smithsonian Magazine, 28 Mar. 2025 Due to breeding practices, Lufy is partially paralyzed and must use a wheelchair as his back legs. Greta Cross, USA TODAY, 25 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for breeding

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of breeding was in the 14th century

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Cite this Entry

“Breeding.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/breeding. Accessed 23 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

breeding

noun
breed·​ing
1
2
: training especially in manners
3
: the producing and raising of plants or animals by sexual reproduction

More from Merriam-Webster on breeding

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