water spaniel

American  

noun

1. either of two breeds of spaniels, used for retrieving waterfowl.

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water spaniel British  

noun

1. either of two large curly-coated breeds of spaniel (the Irish and the American), which are used for hunting waterfowl See also Irish water spaniel

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Etymology

Origin of water spaniel

First recorded in 1560–70

Example Sentences

The first litter of golden retrievers was born in 1868 to a Tweed water spaniel, a breed now extinct, and yellow wavy-coated retriever.

From BBC • Jul. 12, 2023

The Irish water spaniel, wire fox terrier, Labrador, and basset hound also sport mugs that are scientifically proven to pull at our heartstrings.

From Salon • Jun. 27, 2022

The Irish water spaniel, looking a bit nervous, has been sent away by the judge!

From New York Times • Feb. 11, 2020

The Irish water spaniel Gloi Donn All or Nothing at Stanegate, also known as Luther, for the actor Idris Elba, wins best gundog.

From The Guardian • Mar. 23, 2019

As soon as he had the rope secured under his arms he slipped down into the foamy water, and began to buffet the current like a water spaniel.

From The Outdoor Chums After Big Game Or, Perilous Adventures in the Wilderness by Allen, Quincy