Abstract：

This study examines how the English noun dog develops multiple meanings. Using Prototype Theory and Conceptual Metaphor Theory, it shows that the central sense “four-legged companion animal” serves as the hub of a radial category. Cognitive processes of specialization, generalization and metaphor extend this core into six related senses: male canine, worthless item, unattractive woman, despicable man, persistent problem, and the act of following closely. Cultural comparison indicates that Western views often idealize dogs, whereas Eastern views may disparage them, resulting in contrasting evaluative overtones. The findings confirm that polysemy is systematically shaped by embodied experience and cultural models.

Key Words：

polysemy; dog; prototype theory; conceptual metaphor theory; cognitive linguistics