What does pet mean?
A “pet” is an animal kept for companionship, affection, or pleasure, although the word can also refer to a person or thing that is especially favored. As a verb, “pet” means to stroke or handle an animal tenderly, and figuratively to treat someone with special kindness or indulgence. The phrase “make a pet of someone” is especially associated with a person who receives disproportionate attention or privilege. In everyday use, “pet” is most strongly associated with companion animals, but its broader emotional associations extend beyond animals: both senses suggest familiarity, attachment, and affectionate treatment. The word is common in British and American English and appears in compounds such as “pet owner,” “pet food,” and “family pet.” Its figurative uses can be affectionate or mildly critical, depending on whether the favoritism is presented approvingly or as a sign of excessive indulgence.
An animal kept mainly for companionship or enjoyment; also, a person or thing that is especially favored.
"Their cat is the family pet and sleeps on the sofa every afternoon."
The figurative sense, especially “a pet of the family,” is traditional and can describe an indulged child or favorite.
To stroke or handle an animal gently and affectionately; to treat someone with special fondness or indulgence.
"He bent down to pet the dog while it wagged its tail."
When applied to people, the verb often suggests indulgence or preferential treatment and can be mildly critical.
Use the regular plural “pets” for multiple companion animals, favored people, or things regarded with special affection.
"Many pets need their food and veterinary care arranged before their owners travel."
The word “pet” can describe both an animal loved for company and a person who receives special affection, making affection itself part of its meaning.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does pet come from?
The English word “pet” appeared in the early modern period, but its precise origin is uncertain. It developed a broad range of affectionate meanings, including a favored person, an animal kept for companionship, and the action of gently stroking an animal. The word's semantic history does not point confidently to a single known foreign source, so more specific claims about its ancestry should be treated cautiously.
Related word forms
How pet is actually used
As a noun, “pet” commonly refers to a domestic animal such as a dog, cat, bird, or fish. In its older figurative use, it can mean a favorite person or a person indulged by others. As a verb, it often conveys physical affection when used of an animal and indulgence when used of a person.
Easily confused with pet
A pet is an animal or person regarded affectionately, whereas a pest is an unwelcome person, insect, or other troublesome thing.