noun
canine
A pointed tooth between the incisors and premolars.
The dentist points to the sharp canine beside the front teeth.
Etymology
Latin canis means dog, and the ending makes the adjective dog-like. The pointed tooth receives that name through its resemblance to the conspicuous piercing teeth of dogs.
More examples
- Her upper canines help tear food.
- The fossil preserved one long canine.
- A small chip marked the edge of his canine.
Forms
canine · canines
Similar words
- incisor
- A flatter front tooth primarily suited to cutting rather than tearing.