spay
1 Americanverb (used with object)
noun
verb
Other Word Forms
- unspayed adjective
Etymology
Origin of spay1
1375–1425; late Middle English spayen < Anglo-French espeïer to cut with a sword ( Old French espeer ), derivative of espee sword; épée
Origin of spay2
1375–1425; late Middle English < ?
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
His legislation would also provide free vaccinations and spay or neuter services to the felines.
From Barron's • Feb. 10, 2026
On her last day as a student, as part of her laparoscopic procedural class, Ponkey took on the role of primary surgeon to spay the dog and remove its ovaries.
From Los Angeles Times • May 20, 2025
Among the proposed legislation is a bill to establish a high-volume spay and neuter certification program for veterinary students at UC Davis and the Western University College of Veterinary Medicine in Pomona.
From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 24, 2024
A dog spay is on average about £300.
From BBC • Mar. 16, 2024
“Thank you for your call. Please spay or neuter your pets.”
From "The Miscalculations of Lightning Girl" by Stacy McAnulty
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Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.