vet
1 Americannoun
verb (used with object)
-
to appraise, verify, or check for accuracy, authenticity, suitability, etc..
An expert vetted the manuscript before publication.
-
to examine or treat in one's capacity as a veterinarian.
verb (used without object)
noun
abbreviation
-
veteran.
-
veterinarian.
-
veterinary.
noun
verb
-
(tr) to make a prior examination and critical appraisal of (a person, document, scheme, etc) See also positive vetting
the candidates were well vetted
-
to examine, treat, or cure (an animal)
abbreviation
-
veteran
-
veterinarian
-
veterinary
noun
Etymology
Origin of vet1
First recorded in 1860–65; short for veterinarian
Origin of vet2
An Americanism dating back to 1865–70; shortened form
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.
Small-caps are no picnic either, with more than 40% of companies in the Russell 2000 being unprofitable, including lots of biotechs that require expertise to vet.
From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 30, 2026
"I took her to the vet three times. And two times, the vet said, don't worry about it, it's just a rash," he said.
From Barron's • Mar. 30, 2026
“Please send recs for all things Indy,” she wrote, before asking for specific referrals for “hairstylists, makeup artists, nail salons, restaurants, vet, dermatologist, spa.”
From MarketWatch • Mar. 24, 2026
While on a trip to Italy, Kelly took Vinny to a local vet.
From BBC • Mar. 24, 2026
She’s currently at the vet getting her shots.
From "Fast Pitch" by Nic Stone
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.
