What does puppy mean?
A puppy is a young dog, especially one that is less than a year old. The word is often affectionate when it refers to a real animal and may also describe a person in a playful, fond, or deliberately mocking way. In expressions such as “puppy love” and “puppy eyes,” it conveys youthful innocence, enthusiasm, or dependence. The expression “puppy mill” is less affectionate, referring to a commercial operation that breeds large numbers of dogs for sale. In older or deliberately theatrical usage, calling someone a “puppy” is an insult implying that they are immature, overly dependent, or contemptible. The word is also used as a verb in the sense of addressing someone with that insult. Its meaning therefore ranges from warm and domestic to sharply derogatory, depending on tone and context.
A young dog, especially one less than a year old. It can also refer affectionately or disparagingly to a person.
"The puppy slept curled up beside the radiator."
The sense meaning a young dog is ordinary in British and US English. Uses referring to people vary from affectionate to insulting according to context and tone.
To address someone contemptuously as a puppy.
"The speaker Puppy'd the other man across the room."
This use is uncommon and generally sounds old-fashioned, theatrical, or deliberately rude.
The standard plural is “puppies,” with the final y changing to ies.
"The shelter cares for dozens of puppies awaiting adoption."
From an affectionate young dog to a cutting insult for an immature adult, “puppy” has shifted dramatically in tone over the centuries.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of puppy
The exact ultimate origin of “puppy” is uncertain, but the word developed in Middle English as a diminutive referring to a young or small dog. It is commonly traced through an Old French form related to “popet” and ultimately to a Latin word for a child. “Puppet” and “poppet” preserve related language material, while the shorter modern form “pup” reflects the same general word family.
Related word forms
How puppy is actually used
As a term of address, “puppy” is generally insulting and may sound old-fashioned or theatrical. “Puppy love” is usually affectionate and describes romantic affection that is considered youthful or temporary, though it can also be used dismissively.
Easily confused with puppy
A pup is a young dog in general, whereas a puppy specifically suggests a very young dog, usually one less than a year old.
A puppy is a young dog, while a puppet is a jointed figure or doll that is manipulated by strings or by a person.