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.
Mitzi was one of 26 dogs and puppies who were rescued from a backyard breeder. Alyce Collins, MSNBC Newsweek, 31 Oct. 2025 Also called the Norway rat, these rodents are highly adaptive and excellent breeders. Sarah Durn, Popular Science, 30 Oct. 2025 The concierge can connect guests with breeders — or invite them to adoption events hosted on-site. Beth Landman, HollywoodReporter, 30 Oct. 2025 In Oregon, Lane Selman’s Culinary Breeding Network bridges the gap between plant breeders, farmers, chefs, and eaters, creating a collaborative space where flavor—not just yield—drives crop development. Katie Parla, Saveur, 30 Oct. 2025 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 7 Nov. 2025.

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

More from Merriam-Webster on breeder

Last Updated: - Definition revised
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