beagle

American  

[bee-guhl] / ˈbi gəl /

noun

1. one of a breed of small hounds having long ears, short legs, and a usually black, tan, and white coat.

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beagle British  

/ ˈbiːɡəl /

noun

1. a small sturdy breed of hound, having a smooth dense coat usually of white, tan, and black; often used (esp formerly) for hunting hares

2. archaic a person who spies on others

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verb

1. (intr) to hunt with beagles, normally on foot

Etymology

Origin of beagle

1490–1500; perhaps < Middle French beegueule one who whines insistently, equivalent to bee, 3rd person singular of beer to be open, gape (by-form of bayer ( see bay ²) + gueule mouth (of an animal); see gullet

Example Sentences

Proof of that is in the presence of Meghan’s beloved beagle Guy, still loafing in the corner as our host roasts chicken and throws together caramelized onion tarts.

From Salon • Aug. 27, 2025

I took my beagle Philly to Rosie’s Dog Beach in Long Beach and watched him race around like the happiest hound in the world.

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 24, 2025

Another foster affects a Southern drawl, providing entertaining commentary from the perspective of a low-slung beagle mix named Loreta.

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 21, 2025

We're treated to frequent appearances by the Sussexes' sleepy beagle Guy, who died in January, but not before enjoying a lifetime of homemade dog biscuits Meghan prepares with leftover bacon.

From Salon • Mar. 5, 2025

Levi motions with his head toward a ceramic beagle that’s holding open a door.

From "The Miscalculations of Lightning Girl" by Stacy McAnulty

Related Words

• detective
• gumshoe
• private eye
• private investigator
• sleuth