VocabDictionary

household pets

/ˈhaʊs.hoʊld pɛts/beginner Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

Animals, such as dogs, cats, birds, or fish, that are kept in a person's home for companionship, pleasure, or entertainment, rather than for work or food.

Example Sentences:
  • Many families choose to have household pets like a dog or a cat to bring joy and companionship into their lives.
  • Before getting household pets, it's important to research their specific needs and ensure you can provide proper care.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “household pets”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

The term 'household' derives from Old English 'hūshold', combining 'hūs' (house) and 'hold' (holding, keeping). 'Pet' emerged in the late 16th century, initially in Scottish and northern English dialects, with an uncertain origin, possibly related to 'petty' (small) or 'peat' (a small piece). The sense of an 'animal kept as a companion' developed in the early 17th century. Thus, 'household pets' refers to animals kept within a home for companionship.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of 'household' as 'belonging to the house' and 'pets' as 'animals kept for pleasure'. Together, they are animals that live in your home as companions.

Frequently Asked Questions About “household pets

1. What is the meaning of “household pets” in English?

In English, household pets (noun) is defined as: “Animals, such as dogs, cats, birds, or fish, that are kept in a person's home for companionship, pleasure, or entertainment, rather than for work or food.”.

2. How do you use “household pets” in a sentence?

Many families choose to have household pets like a dog or a cat to bring joy and companionship into their lives.

3. What are English synonyms of “household pets”?

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “household pets”?

The term 'household' derives from Old English 'hūshold', combining 'hūs' (house) and 'hold' (holding, keeping). 'Pet' emerged in the late 16th century, initially in Scottish and northern English dialects, with an uncertain origin, possibly related to 'petty' (small) or 'peat' (a small piece). The sense of an 'animal kept as a companion' developed in the early 17th century. Thus, 'household pets' refers to animals kept within a home for companionship.