Rhodesian ridgeback

noun

Rhodesian ridge·​back -ˈrij-ˌbak How to pronounce Rhodesian ridgeback (audio)
often capitalized second R
: any of an African breed of powerful long-bodied hunting dogs having a dense harsh short tan coat with a characteristic crest of reversed hair along the spine

Examples of Rhodesian ridgeback 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.
Dog breeds like Rhodesian ridgebacks, greyhounds, and Irish wolfhounds are naturally driven to chase or attack small animals. — Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 4 Mar. 2025 Advertisement In her own home, Lippman said she’s put her 12-year-old Rhodesian ridgeback in a room with a HEPA filter. — Kim Bellware, Washington Post, 8 June 2023

Word History

First Known Use

1925, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of Rhodesian ridgeback was in 1925

Rhymes for Rhodesian ridgeback

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Rhodesian man
Rhodesian ridgeback
Rhodesian teak
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Cite this Entry

“Rhodesian ridgeback.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Rhodesian%20ridgeback. Accessed 27 Mar. 2025.

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