What does pom mean?
A pom is an informal name for a Pomeranian, a compact toy dog with a luxuriously thick double coat and a plumed tail. The name is widely used by owners and breeders in conversation, so a dog might be described as “the pom” or “a little pom.” It normally carries warm, familiar associations and is not used as a formal breed designation; “Pomeranian” is the precise term in kennel registrations and official descriptions. Although the spelling is short, it should not be confused with “pom-pom,” which can denote a decorative tuft or ball. The word also gives the Pomeranian its place-name-derived name: the breed was associated with Pomerania, a historical region on the southern coast of the Baltic. Knowing “pom” is useful for recognizing the everyday label attached to one of the smallest and most conspicuous spitz breeds.
nounA short, informal name for a Pomeranian, a small breed of dog known for its dense coat, plume-like tail, and lively temperament.
- An informal term for a Pomeranian dog.
"The little pom bounded across the room as soon as the door opened."
"Her pom sat on the windowsill and watched the passing traffic."
"The breeder entered the little pom into the show and gave it a blue ribbon."
Used when referring to more than one Pomeranian informally.
"Two poms waited by the gate."
One tiny word carries the name of a whole region: Pomerania, the historical homeland of the Pomeranian.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does pom come from?
The word is an informal shortening of Pomeranian. Pomeranian in turn derives from Pomerania, the historical region in and around Pomerania on the Baltic coast, from which the breed became associated. The shortened form developed in ordinary speech as an affectionate name for the dog.
How pom is actually used
This is an informal name, especially common among dog owners. It is normally affectionate or neutral rather than formal or literary.
Easily confused with pom
A pom is a Pomeranian dog, whereas a pom-pom is a small decorative tuft or ball, as used on clothing or military uniforms.