Spitzes

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. Characterized by a sharp or pointed form, often used to describe certain types of dogs known for their fox-like features and lively disposition
2. Referring to the structurally pointed shape typical of some breeds, particularly those with thick fur and erect ears, known for their alertness and intelligence
3. Describing a breed of canine recognized for its distinctive appearance, featuring a sharp muzzle, distinctive coat, and a spirited personality

Etymology: "Spitzes" is simply the plural of "spitz", so the real story is the noun it pluralizes. "Spitz" comes from German, where "Spitz" was the name for a dog, and it derives from the adjective "spitz", meaning "pointed." The name describes the dog's most noticeable feature: the muzzle tapers to a fine point, and the breed takes its name from that sharp, tapering shape. Plural forms of the breed name follow the usual English pattern for a word ending in "z," which is why "spitzes" takes "-es" rather than a bare "-s." The word therefore functions as a single descriptive label, borrowed whole from German, applied to a group of dogs that share the same pointed profile.