Abattoir Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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abattoir
[ˈæb.ə.twɑːr ]
Definition
slaughterhouse
An abattoir is a place where animals are slaughtered for food.
Synonyms
butchery, meat-processing plant, slaughterhouse.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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abattoir |
Commonly used in British English to refer to a facility where animals are killed for meat. This term is more formal and may be used in legal or official contexts.
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slaughterhouse |
A general term for a place where animals are killed for meat. This word is commonly used in everyday language and can sometimes carry a more vivid or harsh connotation.
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butchery |
Refers to the craft or business of butchering meat. It can also imply the shop where meat is sold. Additionally, it can have a negative connotation if used to describe a messy or brutal situation.
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meat-processing plant |
Refers to a large industrial facility where animals are not only slaughtered but also processed into various meat products. This term is more technical and business-oriented.
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Examples of usage
- The abattoir is responsible for processing hundreds of animals every day.
- The abattoir meets all the health and safety regulations for food production.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Origin of 'abattoir'
The word 'abattoir' originated in the mid-19th century from French, ultimately derived from Latin 'abattuere' meaning 'to beat down, slaughter'. Abattoirs have been an essential part of food production for centuries, providing communities with meat for consumption. The history of abattoirs is closely linked to the development of agriculture and the human need for protein-rich food sources.