purebred

American  

[pyoor-bred, pyoor-bred] / ˈpyʊərˈbrɛd, ˈpyʊərˌbrɛd /

adjective

1. of or relating to an animal, all of whose ancestors derive over many generations from a recognized breed.

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noun

1. a purebred animal, especially one of registered pedigree.

purebred British  

adjective

1. denoting a pure strain obtained through many generations of controlled breeding for desirable traits

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noun

1. a purebred animal Compare grade crossbred

Etymology

Origin of purebred

First recorded in 1865–70; pure + bred

Example Sentences

The RVC said the study highlighted the importance of owners thoroughly exploring the characteristics of any breed - purebred or crossbred - before getting a dog.

From BBC • Mar. 18, 2026

This show draws national attention to purebred dogs and their competition, as the Puppy Bowl spotlights rescue and adoption.

From Salon • Feb. 8, 2026

For 31 years Labradors topped the American Kennel Club’s purebred rankings, which are based on more than one million annual registrations.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 28, 2025

Knowles sued the seller, Tweed Fox of Carlsbad Cotons, over the test results showing Ted was not a purebred puppy, but said she lost.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 9, 2025

It was a beautiful animal, and had Celaena not known better, she would have thought it purebred.

From "Throne of Glass" by Sarah J. Maas