Abattoir Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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abattoir

[ˈæb.ə.twɑːr ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

slaughterhouse

An abattoir is a place where animals are slaughtered for food.

Synonyms

butchery, meat-processing plant, slaughterhouse.

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Word Description / Examples
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.

  • The local council has granted permission to build a new abattoir.
  • The meat is sourced from a certified abattoir.
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.

  • Protesters gathered outside the slaughterhouse to demand better animal welfare.
  • The regulations for running a slaughterhouse are very strict.
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.

  • His skills in butchery were highly praised by the restaurant.
  • The butchery down the street has the best cuts of meat.
  • The scene was a butchery, with chaos everywhere.
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.

  • The company plans to expand its meat-processing plant to increase production.
  • Working conditions in a meat-processing plant can be quite challenging.

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.


Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,454, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.