What does beagle mean?
A beagle is a small-to-medium-sized hound bred originally in England for hunting hares by scent. Compact and sturdy, with long drooping ears, a short tricolor or bicolor coat, and a famously acute nose, the beagle is one of the most recognizable and popular dog breeds in the English-speaking world. Its exceptional sense of smell has made it valuable well beyond the hunt: beagles serve as detection dogs at airports and border crossings, where their friendly appearance puts travelers at ease. Beyond the animal itself, the word carries a figurative, informal sense: a 'beagle' can be a person who investigates or snoops persistently, a usage that appears in journalism and everyday speech with a mildly humorous edge. The word suits both formal description of the breed and casual, affectionate reference to the dogs themselves, making it a familiar and versatile term for dog lovers and general readers alike.
nounA beagle is a small-to-medium hound of a breed developed in England for hunting hares by scent, characterized by long drooping ears, a short coat, and a keen sense of smell. The word can also informally refer to a person who investigates or snoops into matters.
- A small scent-hunting hound of an English breed, popular as a companion dog.
- (Informal) A person who investigates or snoops, especially persistently or officiously.
"The beagle trotted along the hedgerow, nose to the ground, following the scent trail."
"Our beagle howled at every siren that passed down the street."
"The reporters acted like beagles, digging relentlessly into the scandal."
Standard plural; used both for multiple dogs of the breed and, informally, for multiple investigators or snoops.
"The kennel was full of lively beagles."
Beagles are so trusted at airports that the U.S. Department of Agriculture's 'Beagle Brigade' has used them for decades to sniff out contraband food in luggage.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of beagle
The word 'beagle' entered English in the late Middle Ages, likely from French, where related forms such as 'begueule' have been suggested as sources, though the exact derivation remains uncertain. It originally denoted a small hound kept for hunting. The figurative sense of a nosy or persistent investigator developed later, drawing on the breed's reputation for relentless scent-following.
How beagle is actually used
The figurative sense — a persistent investigator or snooper — is informal and often slightly humorous or mildly derogatory. As a literal term, 'beagle' refers specifically to a recognized breed and is used neutrally.
Easily confused with beagle
An eagle is a large bird of prey, whereas a beagle is a small scent-hunting dog; the two words rhyme but share no meaning.