: any of a breed of small terriers having a white coat with brown, black, or brown-and-black markings

called also Jack Russell

Examples of Jack Russell terrier in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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One mural in a Kyiv park immortalizes a Jack Russell terrier named Patrone who is renowned for assisting mine-clearing teams in the northern Chernihiv district and became a mascot for Ukraine’s emergency services. Laurie Kellman, Los Angeles Times, 27 Aug. 2026 Nearby, the family's Jack Russell terrier was also found deceased from multiple stab wounds. Chris Spargo, PEOPLE, 17 Apr. 2026 The $7,400 pin resembles a Jack Russell terrier, widely believed to be the favorite breed of the Queen Consort and King Charles III. Bailey Bujnosek, InStyle, 5 Feb. 2026 Technically this book is about just one dog, the little Jack Russell terrier that became Bhutto’s closest companion during one of the most difficult times of her life. Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 6 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for Jack Russell terrier

Word History

Etymology

Jack (John) Russell †1883 English clergyman & dog breeder

First Known Use

1961, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of Jack Russell terrier was in 1961

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Cite this Entry

“Jack Russell terrier.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Jack%20Russell%20terrier. Accessed 31 Aug. 2026.

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