What does dog actually mean?

The word "dog" comes from the Middle English word "dogge", which in turn comes from the Old English word "docga". The word "docga" is thought to be derived from the Proto-Germanic word "dukkǭ", which means "dog". The word "dog" has been used in English since the 13th century.

Here are some other possible origins of the word "dog":

* From the Proto-Indo-European root *ḱwōn-, meaning "dog". This root is also the source of the Latin word "canis", meaning "dog".

* From the Old Norse word "dōgr", meaning "day". This is because dogs were often used as symbols of the sun and were thought to protect against evil spirits.

* From the Old French word "dogue", meaning "mastiff". This is because mastiffs were often used as guard dogs and were thought to be strong and powerful.

Ultimately, the origin of the word "dog" is not known for sure. However, the word has been used in English for centuries and is a common term for a canine animal.