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

Jeong’s affinity for the whimsical beagle was passed down to her from her parents, who furnished their home with commemorative “Peanuts” coffee table books.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 23, 2025

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

And obviously, Folds knows that a show that stars a beagle and a small yellow bird that defies classification is not the right place to get bogged down in the issues of the day.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 15, 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

The beagle dropped his ears and slunk off under a parked car.

From "The Secret Life of Bees" by Sue Monk Kidd

Related Words

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