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

Bruno, a seven-year-old bloodhound, had been hailed as a hero for finding nine missing people during his career, and was once honoured by Italy's prime minister.

Read more on BBC

A Southern California couple who lost their French bulldog have gone to great lengths over the last two months to find the pooch, resorting to bloodhounds, animal psychics, cash rewards and door-to-door canvasing.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Then spontaneously one Christmas, while his partner was away visiting family, he went out and bought a pack of bloodhounds.

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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.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

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

Read more on Seattle Times

Related Words

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