1
: the process by which young animals, birds, etc., are produced by their parents
—often used before another noun
the breeding season
2
: the activity of keeping and caring for animals or plants in order to produce more animals or plants of a particular kind
She became involved in the breeding of sled dogs.
horse/dog/plant breeding
—often used before another nouna breeding program
3
somewhat old-fashioned
: the way a person was taught in childhood to behave
His politeness shows good breeding.
: good manners that come from being raised correctly
a person who lacks breeding
Cite this Entry
“Breeding.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/breeding. Accessed 24 Jun. 2026.
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