breeding

noun

1. (countable, uncountable)Propagation of offspring through sexual reproduction.

   “In analysing the ecological conditions of an animal population we have above all to focus our attention upon the most sensitive stages within the life cycle of the animal, that is, the period of breeding and larval development.”

   “Plant breeding is always a numbers game.[…]The wild species we use are rich in genetic variation, and individual plants are highly heterozygous and do not breed true.”

2. (countable, uncountable)The act of insemination by natural or artificial means.
3. (countable, uncountable)The act of copulation in animals.
4. (countable, uncountable)The good manners regarded as characteristic of the aristocracy and conferred by heredity.
5. (countable, uncountable)Nurture; education; formation of manners.

   “She had her breeding at my father's charge.”

6. (countable, uncountable)Descent; pedigree; extraction.

   “Your dog has good breeding.”

   “Honest gentlemen, I know not your breeding.”

7. (countable, slang, uncountable)Ejaculation inside the rectum during bareback anal sex.

adj

1. (not-comparable)Of, relating to or used for breeding.

   “Your toothbrush is a breeding ground for bacteria.”

verb

1. (form-of, gerund, participle, present)present participle and gerund of breed

   “Through genetic manipulation and harsh training, I am breeding a species of super-dogs to take over the world.”

name

1. A surname.