breeding
/ˈbriːdɪŋ
/noun [mass noun]
1The mating and production of offspring by animals: the flooding of the rivers is a trigger for breeding to start...
- In both cases the result is assortative mating or breeding among mates that possess similar genes.
- They possess fully-functional reproductive systems, showing that they are capable of normal breeding.
- The lives of innumerable other animals that rely on oak woodlands during migration or breeding could be disrupted.
Synonyms
reproduction, reproducing, procreation, multiplying, propagation;
mating
rearing, raising, nurturing
2The good manners regarded as characteristic of the aristocracy and conferred by heredity: a girl of good breeding...
- This lady is of good breeding, and great character.
- Both appeared to have good manners and fine breeding.
- She was grateful that her manners and good breeding had not failed her while the rest of her mind seemingly had.
Synonyms
upbringing, rearing;
birth, parentage, family, pedigree, blood, stock, lineage
(good) manners, gentility, refinement, cultivation, culture, polish, civility, urbanity;
politeness, courtesy, graciousness
informal class
humorous couth