Definition of mongrel

< mongoose

mongrelize >

mon·grel    (mnggrl, mng-) KEY 

NOUN:

1. An animal or a plant resulting from various interbreedings, especially a dog of mixed or undetermined breed.
2. A cross between different breeds, groups, or varieties, especially a mixture that is or appears to be incongruous.

ADJECTIVE:

Of mixed origin or character.

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ETYMOLOGY:
Middle English, probably from mong, mixture, from Old English gemang; see mag- in Indo-European roots

OTHER FORMS:
mon·grelism(Noun), mongrel·ly(Adverb)