Main Entry: mas·tiff

Pronunciation: \ˈmas-təf\

Function: noun

Etymology: Middle English mastif, from Medieval Latin mastivus, from Vulgar Latin *masuetivus, from Latin mansuetus tame — more at mansuetude

Date: 14th century

: any of a breed of very large massive powerful smooth-coated dogs that are apricot, fawn, or brindle and are often used as guard dogs

[mastiff illustration]