breed

Definition

As a noun, a breed is a type of animal with specific shared characteristics. As a verb, it means to keep animals so they produce young, or to cause a particular feeling or situation to develop.

Usage & Nuances

Common with animals: 'dog breed', 'rare breed', 'breed horses'. The verb is often used in biology and farming, but also figuratively: 'Success can breed confidence' or 'Violence breeds fear'. Don't confuse it with 'raise', which focuses more on caring for animals or children.

Example Sentences