Bullmastiff is a large breed of dog that originated in England. They are known for their powerful and muscular build, as well as their protective nature. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of bullmastiff, as well as its origin, associations, synonyms, antonyms, and examples of its use in sentences.
Definitions
Bullmastiff is a noun that refers to a large breed of dog that was originally bred for guarding estates. They are known for their strength, loyalty, and protective instincts. The word “bull” in bullmastiff refers to their ability to tackle and hold intruders, while “mastiff” refers to their large size and muscular build.
Origin
Bullmastiff dogs were first developed in England in the mid-19th century. They were bred by gamekeepers to help protect estates from poachers. The breed was created by crossing English Mastiffs with Bulldogs, resulting in a dog that was strong, agile, and fearless.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, bullmastiff is defined as “a large, powerful breed of dog developed in England by crossing bulldogs with mastiffs, used for guarding property.” The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines bullmastiff as “a large, powerful dog developed in England for guarding estates.”
Associations
Bullmastiffs are often associated with strength, loyalty, and protection. They are known for their ability to deter intruders and protect their owners. Bullmastiffs are also associated with being gentle and affectionate with their families.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for bullmastiff include:
- Guard dog.
- Watchdog.
- Canine.
Antonyms
There are no direct antonyms for bullmastiff, but some words that are opposite in meaning include:
- Weak.
- Small.
- Timid.
- Cowardly.
The same root words
The root words in bullmastiff are “bull” and “mastiff.” Some other words that share these roots include:
- Bull terrier.
- Bullmastiff mix.
Example Sentences
- My bullmastiff is a great watchdog and always alerts me when someone is at the door.
- The bullmastiff’s muscular build and powerful jaws make it an excellent guard dog.
- Bullmastiffs are known for their loyalty and devotion to their owners.
- The bullmastiff’s protective instincts make it a great choice for families with children.
- Despite their size, bullmastiffs are gentle and affectionate with their families.