puppy etymology

Etymology

The word "puppy" entered the English language in the early 16th century, deriving from Middle English "pupee," a diminutive of "pupet," which itself originated from Old French "poupet," meaning "doll" or "toy."

Meaning and Origin

"Puppy" primarily refers to a young dog, typically under one year old. It is often used as a term of endearment or to express playfulness or affection. The word has several possible origins:

• Diminutive of "dog": It may have been derived as a diminutive of the word "dog," similar to how "kitten" is related to "cat."
• Resemblance to dolls: The word "pupet" in Old French referred to a small figure or doll, and the term "puppy" may have been applied to young dogs due to their small size and cuddly nature.

• Association with playing: The playful and energetic behavior of puppies may have led to their association with toys and games, hence the connection to "pupet" or "doll."

  over time, the term "puppy" has taken on a more general meaning to refer to any young dog, regardless of its size or breed. It has become a widely used and universally recognized word to describe the early stages of a dog's life.

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