chow

(also ‘chow chow’; plural: ‘chows‘/’chow chows‘; pronunciation: the letters ‘ch’ rhyme with the letters ‘ch’ in “church”)

a chow chow

a kind of dog – mammal – stocky, broad head, small triangular erect ears rounded at the tips, smooth or rough thick fur (coat); a curly tail that rests on its back; huge ruff or mane (= thick hair grown on the neck) on the neck; grows to 16- 22 inches tall at the shoulder, weighs 20-30 Kg.; lives about 15 years; originally from Mongolia, but became native to China, but now bred in many countries of the world

Special Features:

Chow Chows are one of the popular pet breeds in the world.

the purple tongue

The chow chow is considered one of the oldest breeds of dog — believed to have been in existence for 4000 years.

The most striking feature of this dog is its blue-black or purple tongue and black-lined mouth and lips!

The less striking features are the straight hind (back) legs, and the ruff or mane on its neck that gives it a lion-like look.

a chow pulling a small cart

In olden days, Chinese used chow chow for guarding houses and pulling carts.

According to some experts, Chinese ate chow’s meat as delicacy, i.e. as special/favourite food at ceremonies, and used the fur for clothing.

And there is still a good market for its meat and fur even to this day!

Figures of Speech:

‘chow’ = the food & to chow down = to eat the food

 

1.

chow (noun)  =  (mostly in American usage) food; a meal; food supplies

2.

to chow (verb)  =  (usually with ‘down’) to eat, usually quickly or eagerly

Note: ‘Chow’, always with a capital ‘c’, is the name of the imperial dynasty (a family of rulers) of China from 1122 to 221 B.C.

About the Author:BC Kumar

BC Kumar, an English Language Teacher, taught in numerous countries including Ethiopia, Oman and India, shares his knowledge and passion for the English Language. Disclaimer: This is a free educational website and all content has been compiled by the author. All copyrights to images and videos belong to their respective owners.

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