Newfoundland

Definition

A very large breed of working dog from Newfoundland, with a shaggy, usually black coat, known for its water rescue ability, strength, and gentle disposition.

Etymology

From Middle English new found lande (in a letter, apparently written in 1499, from Henry VII of England to his lord chancellor, Cardinal John Morton, about the North American land explored by Sebastian and John Cabot, a likely location being Newfoundland, or the name later being specifically narrowed down to it), equivalent to newfound + land.

Example Sentences

• "The younger, a frank, bold, bright-eyed child, was mounted on a large Newfoundland dog, whose impatience the elder brother was trying to soothe."