Newfoundland

/ˈnufənlənd/

/ˈnufənlənd/

Other forms: Newfoundlands

Newfoundland is an island on the east coast of Canada, and it's also the name of a large, furry dog that was bred to work on fishing boats in Newfoundland.

Newfoundland is part of the Canadian province that is called "Newfoundland and Labrador." While Newfoundland itself only makes up about 30 percent of the land area, the vast majority of the province's residents live there. Newfoundland, originally dubbed New Found Launde in accounts written by King Henry VII as early as 1497, is one of Canada's oldest place names. Fishing has always been important to the island's culture and economy, and the dog that shares its name has webbed feet and a water-resistant, double-layered coat, ideal for staying warm and dry during water rescues. These dogs are known for having a gentle temperament, frequently referred to as "gentle giants" and "nanny dogs."

Definitions of Newfoundland

1. noun

   an island in the north Atlantic
   example of:

   island

   a land mass (smaller than a continent) that is surrounded by water
2. noun

   a breed of very large heavy dogs with a thick coarse usually black coat; highly intelligent dogs and vigorous swimmers; developed in Newfoundland
   synonyms: Newfoundland dog

   type of:

   Canis familiaris, dog, domestic dog

   a member of the genus Canis (probably descended from the common wolf) that has been domesticated by man since prehistoric times; occurs in many breeds