companion animal

noun

: a domesticated animal : pet
… an amazing tour de force of animal-human relationships, with chapters on our companion animals, as well as on livestock, wildlife, and zoos.—Tim Flannery, The New York Times Book Review, 29 Apr. 2009
These companion animals are being used very specifically as adjuncts in the therapy of disabled people.—Patricia Curtis, Smithsonian, July 1981

Word History

First Known Use

1897, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of companion animal was in 1897

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Dictionary Entries Near companion animal

companionage

companion animal

companionate

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Cite this Entry

“Companion animal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/companion%20animal. Accessed 23 Nov. 2024.

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