Part of Speech

Adjective

Pronunciation

/ˈbrɪndəld/

Definitions

• Adjective: Describing an animal, especially a dog, horse, or cattle, having a coat with a pattern of streaks or patches of different colors, often dark and light.

Usage Examples

• "The brindled coat of the dog made it easy to spot among the rest of the herd."
• "She admired the brindled markings of the tiger as it prowled through the forest."

Etymology

The word "brindled" comes from the Middle English term "brindel," meaning streaked or striped. It is derived from the Old French word "brindille" (meaning a small twig), referring to the streaks or patches in the coat of an animal resembling the pattern of twigs or branches.

Synonyms

• Striped
• Mottled
• Spotted
• Patchy
• Streaked

Antonyms

• Solid
• Uniform
• Monochrome

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In some British dialects, "brindled" might be pronounced with a rolled "r," especially in rural settings.
• In North American English, the "d" sound in "brindled" may be softer and less pronounced.

Historical Usage

The term "brindled" has been used since the 14th century to describe animals, particularly dogs and horses, with streaked or streaky coats. Its application likely extended from the older Middle English "brindel" to describe patterns seen in nature, typically in relation to animals with contrasting fur or coat colors.

Cultural Nuances

The brindled appearance has often been associated with rustic or wild beauty. In rural communities, a brindled animal was sometimes considered a symbol of uniqueness, endurance, and strength. In literature and folklore, such animals were often used as metaphors for complexity or the blending of light and dark.

More Information

The brindled pattern is particularly common in certain dog breeds such as the Boxer and Greyhound, as well as various cattle breeds. The term is also used in the arts to describe the use of streaked patterns in fabrics, paintings, and ceramics. Its usage extends beyond animals, serving as an important aesthetic descriptor in visual arts and culture.