pit bull

noun

1

or pit bull terrier : a muscular, short-haired, stocky dog (such as an American pit bull terrier or American Staffordshire terrier) of any of several breeds or a hybrid with one or more of these breeds that was originally developed for fighting and is noted for strength, stamina, and tenacity

2

: an aggressive and tenacious person

Synonyms

• tiger

Examples of pit bull in a Sentence

a pit bull who won't let anyone stand in her way to the top of the corporate ladder

Recent Examples on the Web

News 9 spoke to Scott's mother Cheryl, who said her daughter was riding bicycles with her boyfriend when a friend's pit bulls began attacking her. —Liam Quinn, PEOPLE, 24 Sep. 2025

Yet heartwarming moments like Nova's stand remind viewers that with the right upbringing, pit bulls can be gentle guardians not only of people but of their animal companions too. —Lucy Notarantonio, MSNBC Newsweek, 23 Sep. 2025

Two pit bulls were overcome with excitement when their beloved owner came home from deployment. —Ronnie Li, USA Today, 18 Sep. 2025

Introducing Anthony, a pit bull terrier who mixes his moods in a perfectly puppy-like way. —Tj MacIas, Kansas City Star, 8 Sep. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1927, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for pit bull

• brimful
• handful
• mouthful
• roomful
• spoonful
• full
• pull
• wool

Kids Definition

pit bull

noun

: a dog of any of several breeds originally developed for fighting and noted for strength and stamina