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What is the Meaning of “Kennel”?

Kennel
/ˈkenəl/
noun B2 Tier 4 (Top 10,000 words)

A small house or cage where a dog sleeps and lives

Definition of Kennel

Quick Meaning of Kennel

A small house or cage where a dog sleeps and lives

Detailed Definition of Kennel

A small shelter or cage for a dog; a place where dogs are bred and raised or left for care during owner's absence

How to Pronounce Kennel

IPA: /ˈkenəl/
ken nel

Stress pattern: oo (2-syllable word).

Tip: Pronounced /ˈkenəl/ with stress on first syllable

Watch out: Check IPA: /ˈkenəl/

Full pronunciation guide for “kennel” →

Origin and Etymology of Kennel

From Old French 'chenil', from Latin 'canis' (dog). Used in English since 14th century for dog shelters.

How to Use Kennel in a Sentence

Each example shows “kennel” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.

  • “We left our dog at the kennel while we were on holiday.”
    B2 daily
  • “The rescue centre had rows of kennels for abandoned dogs.”
    B2 formal
  • “They built a sturdy kennel in the backyard for their puppy.”
    B2 written

Synonyms and Antonyms of Kennel

Common Synonyms for Kennel

Smart Synonyms for Kennel — When to Use Each

doghouse
Small shelter built for a pet dog
shelter
Place providing protection for animals

See all synonyms for “kennel” →

Common Collocations with Kennel

These phrases pair with “kennel” in everyday English:

  • dog kennel
  • kennel club
  • kennels for dogs
  • boarding kennel
  • kennel cough

Common Mistakes When Using Kennel

Even fluent speakers slip up with “kennel”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:

✗ Wrong: The dog lives in a kennel outside in rain
✓ Correct: The dog's kennel was outside, exposed to rain
Why: Rephrase to show shelter context properly
✗ Wrong: We put our dogs in kennels when we travel
✓ Correct: We leave our dogs at a kennel when we travel
Why: Use 'leave at' or 'board at' not 'put in kennels'
✗ Wrong: The kennels are a safe place for dogs
✓ Correct: Kennels are safe places for dogs
Why: When generic, use plural without article

Other Forms of Kennel

Frequently Asked Questions About Kennel

What is the meaning of "Kennel"?

A small house or cage where a dog sleeps and lives

How do you pronounce "Kennel"?

The IPA is /ˈkenəl/. Pronounced /ˈkenəl/ with stress on first syllable

What part of speech is "Kennel"?

"Kennel" is a noun at B2 level (Common European Framework).

What are synonyms for "Kennel"?

Common synonyms include doghouse, pen, enclosure.

How do you use "Kennel" in a sentence?

For example: "We left our dog at the kennel while we were on holiday."

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