Cattle Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
🐄
cattle
[ˈkætəl ]
Definitions
livestock farming
Cattle are large domesticated animals raised for their meat, milk, or hides. They are typically found on farms and ranches.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| cattle |
Refers to a group of cows, bulls, and calves. It's a general term used in agriculture and farming.
|
| livestock |
A broader term that includes not just cattle but also other farm animals like sheep, pigs, and chickens. Used in a more general agricultural context.
|
| cows |
Refers to female cattle, especially those that have given birth. Often used when talking about milk production.
|
| bulls |
Specifically refers to male cattle that are not castrated. Used mainly when discussing breeding, strength, or behavior.
|
Examples of usage
- The farmer herded the cattle into the pen.
- Cattle farming is a major industry in this region.
group of animals
Cattle is a term used to describe a group of cows, bulls, or steers. They often graze together in fields.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| cattle |
General term for bovine animals kept for farming purposes. Appropriate for use in agricultural or farming contexts.
|
| herd |
A collective term describing a group of cattle moving or grazing together. Best used when referring to the behavior or movement of a group.
|
| livestock |
A broader term that encompasses all domestic animals raised for farming, not just cattle. Suitable for discussions about farming operations or agricultural economy.
|
| cows |
Specifically refers to female bovine animals that are raised for milk production or breeding. Used in contexts where gender and purpose are clarified.
|
Examples of usage
- A herd of cattle was grazing in the pasture.
- The cattle were peacefully resting under the shade of a tree.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Agriculture
- Cattle have been domesticated for over 10,000 years, playing a vital role in the development of human societies.
- They are raised for various purposes, including dairy production, meat (beef), and leather.
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, cattle are seen as symbols of wealth and status.
- Certain festivals globally celebrate cattle, such as the 'Gudi Padwa' festival in India, during which cattle are decorated.
Environmental Impact
- Cattle farming has significant ecological effects, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions, especially methane, through digestion.
- Pasture management is critical for maintaining biodiversity, as overgrazing can lead to land degradation.
Science
- Research shows that cattle have complex social structures and can form strong bonds with each other.
- Studying cattle behavior helps dairy farmers improve milk production through better animal welfare practices.
Origin of 'cattle'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Old Northern French term 'catel,' which means property or livestock.
- In Latin, 'caput' means head, which is related to counting livestock by their heads.
The word 'cattle' originated from the Old French word 'chatel', which meant property. Over time, it evolved to refer specifically to domesticated animals such as cows, bulls, and steers. Cattle have been an integral part of human agriculture and food production for centuries, providing essential resources like meat, milk, and leather.
See also: cattleman.