breeder

noun

breed·​er ˈbrē-dər How to pronounce breeder (audio)
: one that breeds: such as
a
: an animal or plant kept for propagation
b
: one engaged in the breeding of a specified organism
c
: a nuclear reactor designed to produce more fissionable material than it uses as fuel

called also breeder reactor

Examples of breeder in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Cream and so many other homeless dogs are a direct result of the demand for backyard breeders. Ross Rosenfeld, Newsweek, 26 Feb. 2025 One area where using the collar might stand out is for breeders. PCMAG, 18 Feb. 2025 But, as the Los Angeles Times outlined last fall, new resellers have cropped up to take retail stores’ place, masquerading as local breeders or even rescues. Andrew Sheeler, Sacramento Bee, 12 Feb. 2025 Now, state lawmakers propose three bills to crack down on the sale of puppies from out-of-state mass breeders. Ryan Fonseca, Los Angeles Times, 12 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for breeder

Word History

First Known Use

1531, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of breeder was in 1531

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Cite this Entry

“Breeder.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/breeder. Accessed 3 Mar. 2025.

Medical Definition

breeder

noun
breed·​er
: one that breeds: as
a
: an animal or plant kept for propagation
b
: one engaged in the breeding of a specified organism

More from Merriam-Webster on breeder

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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