A springer is a dog that springs or jumps up to flush birds out of hiding for hunters. Springer spaniels, the most well-known type, got their name because they would spring into dense bushes and tall grass, startling birds into flight so hunters could see them. These medium-sized dogs have long, floppy ears and energetic personalities that match their bouncing movement through fields.

The English Springer Spaniel and Welsh Springer Spaniel are two popular breeds that still work as hunting dogs today, though many families now keep them simply as loyal, active pets. Watch a springer in action and you'll see why they earned the name: they bound through fields with enthusiasm, springing over obstacles and through vegetation with natural joy.

The word can also refer to the lowest stone in an arch, called a springer stone, which sits at the point where the arch begins to curve upward and springs from its support. Architects and builders use this term when constructing arched doorways, bridges, and windows.