What does poodle mean?
A poodle is primarily a breed of dog known for its dense, curly or wavy coat and its distinctive grooming. Standard poodles may be black, white, brown, gray, or other recognized colors, and the breed occurs in several sizes, including the well-known miniature poodle. The word also has a figurative, informal use for someone or something excessively fashionable, elaborate, or affected, as in the expression “poodle pink.” In older usage, the term could refer more broadly to a curly-haired water dog bred to retrieve game. Today, the breed name commonly suggests a carefully groomed and often pampered animal, even though poodles are also known for intelligence and trainability. The word’s unusual history links it not to the curly coat but to water: it entered English from German, where Pudel was associated with splashing or wallowing in puddles. The term therefore carries both a literal reference to a familiar dog breed and a playful cultural association with luxury and elaborate styling.
A domestic dog of a breed with a dense, curly or wavy coat, occurring in several sizes and colors.
"A white standard poodle competed in the agility competition."
When the breed is being discussed formally, modifiers such as “standard,” “miniature,” or “toy” may specify its size class.
Informally, a person or thing regarded as excessively fancy, elaborate, or affected.
"The critics dismissed the production as a poodle of a show, lavish but lacking substance."
To groom or clip a dog's fur, especially in the rounded or tufted style traditionally associated with poodles.
"The owner poodled the dog before the competition."
This verb is uncommon and chiefly associated with professional grooming terminology.
Use the plural when referring to more than one dog or to the breed collectively.
"Two poodles were waiting outside the grooming salon."
The word “poodle” originally evoked water: it comes from German Pudel, associated with splashing in a puddle.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does poodle come from?
The word entered English from German Pudel, a form associated with puddeln, “to splash or paddle in water.” This reflects the breed’s historical use as a water dog. German Pudel developed within the same Germanic vocabulary that includes English “puddle,” although the precise development of the English and German forms is not entirely transparent.
Related word forms
How poodle is actually used
The breed name is standard in both British and American English. The figurative sense is informal and usually disparaging, suggesting conspicuous fashion or affected behavior.