DOG'S-EARED Meaning and Definition
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Dog's-eared is an idiom often used to describe the physical state of a book or a document. It refers to the condition in which the corners or edges of the pages have become bent or folded, resembling the appearance of a dog's ears. This term is commonly used to describe a book that has been well-read and shows signs of prolonged use or handling.
The dog's-eared condition typically occurs when a reader repeatedly flips the pages or marks their progress by folding the corners. It can also happen when a book is tossed around or stored carelessly, resulting in creased or folded edges that resemble the ears of a dog. This well-known expression is used metaphorically to indicate the signs of wear and tear a book has endured due to frequent use or mishandling.
Furthermore, the term "dog's-eared" can be used figuratively to describe any well-utilized or oft-referenced item that shows visible signs of frequent handling or use. For example, someone may mention a dog's-eared recipe card, indicating that it has been repeatedly accessed and is marked with signs of wear.
In summary, dog's-eared is an idiomatic expression used to describe the condition of a book or document in which the corners or edges are bent or folded, resembling the ears of a dog. It signifies a well-used item that shows visible signs of handling or prolonged use.
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Folded down, as the corner of a leaf.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for DOG'S-EARED
- dogg-eared
- dog-eared
- sog's-eared
- xog's-eared
- cog's-eared
- fog's-eared
- rog's-eared
- eog's-eared
- dig's-eared
- dkg's-eared
- dlg's-eared
- dpg's-eared
- d0g's-eared
- d9g's-eared
- dof's-eared
- dov's-eared
- dob's-eared
- doh's-eared
- doy's-eared
- dot's-eared
Etymology of DOG'S-EARED
The term "dog's-eared" originated from the literal habit of dogs chewing or tearing at the corners of pages in books, resulting in them becoming folded or bent. Over time, this behavior of dogs gave rise to the phrase "dog-eared" or "dog's-eared", which began to be used metaphorically to describe anything that had its corners or edges bent or curled. In this particular context, it is often used to refer to a book or document that has been repeatedly handled or read, causing its pages to become dog-eared. The term "dog's-eared" has been in use since at least the early 19th century.
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