attack dog

The term 'attack dog' can refer to both a specially trained canine and a person known for their aggressive behavior in defending or promoting a cause.

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Definition

B2Animal Training

(technical, security)A dog trained to attack or defend on command, often used for security or police work.

Example

  • The police used an attack dog to apprehend the suspect.
  • Attack dogs are often employed to guard military bases.

C1Figurative

(informal, politics)A person who aggressively defends or supports a cause, often using confrontational methods.

Example

  • The politician's spokesperson acted as an attack dog during the debate.
  • He became known as the company's attack dog, always ready to confront critics.

Similar

Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "attack dog":

war dogpolice dogdog arounddog outbig dogbird doglap dogpit bulldog officerblack dogservice dogdog in the huntmad dogwater dogfire dogdog mantop dogpig dog