breeder

noun

breed·​er ˈbrē-dər How to pronounce breeder (audio)
: one that breeds: such as
a
: an animal or plant kept for propagation
b
: one engaged in the breeding of a specified organism
c
: a nuclear reactor designed to produce more fissionable material than it uses as fuel

called also breeder reactor

Examples of breeder in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Taking big breeder pythons out of native ecosystems is a victory for any Florida biologist. Bill Kearney, Sun Sentinel, 19 Apr. 2026 The pavilion buzzed with activity as animal educators, conservationists, breeders and vendors filled the space. Nicole Buss, Sacbee.com, 19 Apr. 2026 Go off word-of-mouth recommendations from friends and neighbors, and check that the breeder is AKC registered. The Editors, Curbed, 16 Apr. 2026 An eccentric poodle breeder lures a broke college student to her remote ranch with a promise of research funding. Ryan Lattanzio, IndieWire, 16 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for breeder

Word History

First Known Use

1529, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of breeder was in 1529

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Breeder.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/breeder. Accessed 23 Apr. 2026.

Medical Definition

breeder

noun
breed·​er
: one that breeds: as
a
: an animal or plant kept for propagation
b
: one engaged in the breeding of a specified organism

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