setter

noun

set·​ter ˈse-tər How to pronounce setter (audio)
1
: one that sets
2
: a large bird dog (such as an Irish setter) of a type trained to point on finding game

Examples of setter in a Sentence

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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Fiscal policy needs to align with the Fed, so politicians and the monetary policy setters aren’t working against one another. — David Goldman, CNN Money, 3 Sep. 2026 With four Grand Slams a year, 127 matches per men’s draw, and less than 20% of matches going the full five sets, there are roughly 100 five-setters every calendar year. — Lev Akabas, Sportico.com, 31 Aug. 2026 Senior Angeli Aguilar has 35 kills and 45 digs, and junior setter Olivia Tome has 49 assists and 9 ace serves for the Lions. — Buddy Collings, The Orlando Sentinel, 26 Aug. 2026 The Virginia recruit is joined by senior setters Natalie Bochantin (Milwaukee) and Malley Green (Seton Hill). — Jeff Vorva, Chicago Tribune, 20 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for setter

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of setter was in the 15th century

Phrases Containing setter

Rhymes for setter

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Browse Nearby Words

settee sail
setter
settergrass
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Cite this Entry

“Setter.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/setter. Accessed 7 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

setter

noun
set·​ter ˈset-ər How to pronounce setter (audio)
1
: someone or something that sets
2
: a large long-coated dog (as an Irish setter) used in hunting birds that is trained to point on finding game

More from Merriam-Webster on setter

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about setter

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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