Boston terrier

noun

: any of a breed of small smooth-coated terriers originating as a cross of the bulldog and bull terrier and being brindled or black with white markings

called also Boston bull

Examples of Boston terrier in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The book shares the true tale of her granddaughter and great-grandchildren’s beloved Boston terrier who traveled with them around the world, including stops in Sweden, Hong Kong, Toronto, Beverly Hills and, perhaps most importantly, grandma’s house in San Diego. —Karen Billing, San Diego Union-Tribune, 5 Aug. 2025

Bully breed is a generic term for a variety of terrier-type dogs like American pit bull terriers, bull terriers, bullmastiffs, Staffordshire terriers, Boston terriers, boxers and French bulldogs. —Lisa Bloch, Mercury News, 22 July 2025

Many believed the puppy could be a Boston terrier and pit-bull mix, noting his distinct features and charming expression. —Melissa Fleur Afshar, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 July 2025

Have long or thick fur. Are a breed with breathing issues, including bulldogs, pugs, boxers, Boston terriers or Persian cats. —Angela Rodriguez, Sacbee.com, 30 May 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1892, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for Boston terrier

• farrier
• ferrier
• harrier
• merrier
• perrier

Kids Definition

Boston terrier

noun

: any of a U.S. breed of small short-haired dogs having erect ears and a broad flat face

called also Boston bull