How Do You Spell FOXHOUNDS?

Pronunciation: [fˈɒksha͡ʊndz] (IPA)

The word "foxhounds" is spelled with a combination of sounds that can be challenging to decipher. In IPA phonetic transcription, it would be written as /ˈfɒksˌhaʊndz/. The first syllable "fox" is pronounced with a short "o" sound and a voiceless "ks" consonant cluster. The second syllable "hound" has a long "ou" sound and ends with a voiced "d" consonant. Finally, the "s" at the end is pronounced as a voiceless "z" consonant. Together, these sounds make up the word "foxhounds," used to describe a breed of hunting dogs.

FOXHOUNDS Meaning and Definition

1. Foxhounds are a breed of large, athletic hounds that are specifically bred and trained for the purpose of hunting foxes. These dogs are known for their exceptional sense of smell, remarkable stamina, and agile nature.

   The typical appearance of foxhounds includes a lean, muscular body with long, straight legs that give them the ability to cover long distances while maintaining speed and endurance. Their ears are large and wide-set, which helps them to pick up scents and sounds more effectively. Additionally, foxhounds possess a strong hunting instinct that is deeply ingrained in their genetic makeup.

   In terms of temperament, foxhounds are known to be friendly, sociable, and highly trainable. They are often described as being intelligent, tenacious, and alert. This makes them well-suited for their primary role in the hunting field. With proper training and socialization, they can also make excellent family pets, although they may require a lot of exercise due to their high energy levels.

   Foxhounds are typically utilized in packs rather than as individual dogs. Packs of foxhounds work together to track, chase, and corner foxes, often aided by human hunters on horseback. They follow the scent trails left by the foxes' spoor and use their vocal baying or barking to communicate with each other and their handlers. The coordination and collaboration among the hounds in a pack are instrumental in flushing out and pursuing the fox until it is caught or driven to exhaustion.

Common Misspellings for FOXHOUNDS

• foxhunts
• foxhoundd
• borhounds
• bohounds

Etymology of FOXHOUNDS

The word "foxhounds" can be understood by breaking it down into two parts: "fox" and "hounds".

1. The word "fox" comes from the Old English word "fox", which is believed to have its roots in the Proto-Germanic word "fuhsaz". This term is related to other Germanic languages like Old High German "fuhs" and Dutch "vos". All these words designate the same animal, the fox.

2. The term "hounds" is derived from the Old English word "hund" or "hundas", which originates from the Proto-Germanic word "hundaz". This predecessor word refers broadly to a dog or a canine.

When combined, "foxhounds" refers to a specific breed of hunting dogs that are traditionally used in fox hunting. The name suggests their primary role and purpose in hunting foxes.

Similar spelling words for FOXHOUNDS

• foxhound,
• foxhunt.