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Cow Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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cow

[kaʊ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

domestic animal

A large domesticated herbivorous mammal with horns and cloven hoofs, domesticated for meat or milk.

Synonyms

bovine, cattle, heifer.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
cow

Commonly used to refer to an adult female of the species Bos taurus. Typically used in everyday conversation and contexts relating to dairy farming or animals.

  • The cow is grazing in the field.
  • We get milk from cows.
cattle

A general term used to describe a group of domesticated bovines. Often used in agricultural, farming, and economic contexts.

  • The farmer has a large herd of cattle.
  • Cattle ranching is a key industry in this region.
bovine

A scientific term that can refer to any member of the species Bos taurus, including cows, bulls, and calves. Often used in veterinary, scientific, or formal contexts.

  • The veterinarian specializes in bovine health.
  • Bovine spongiform encephalopathy is a serious disease.
heifer

Refers specifically to a young female cow that has not yet had a calf. Commonly used in farming and veterinary contexts.

  • The heifer will be ready to breed next year.
  • They bought five heifers at the auction.

Examples of usage

  • The farmer raised cows for their milk production.
  • Cows are often seen grazing in the fields.
  • The cow mooed loudly to call her calf.
  • The cow gave birth to a healthy calf.
  • The cow is a symbol of prosperity in many cultures.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Agriculture

  • Cows are essential to agriculture, providing milk, meat, and leather which are significant for economy and culture.
  • A single cow can produce about 6 to 7 gallons of milk per day, significantly contributing to dairy industries globally.

Cultural Significance

  • In Hindu culture, cows are considered sacred and are associated with non-violence and motherhood.
  • In many cultures, cows are often depicted in art and folklore, symbolizing fertility and abundance.

Science

  • Cows are ruminants, meaning they have a unique digestive system with four stomach compartments for breaking down tough plant fibers.
  • Their social behavior is complex; they form close bonds with other cows and exhibit emotions, showing they thrive in herds.

Pop Culture

  • Cows have been popular in cartoons and animations, often portrayed as friendly and silly characters.
  • Numerous idioms involve cows, such as 'milking it', which refers to exploiting a situation, showing their place in everyday language.

Origin of 'cow'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old English 'cū', which means female of the bovine species.
  • Related words in other languages show its long-standing presence, like 'vaca' in Spanish and 'vache' in French, both meaning cow.

The word 'cow' originated from the Old English word 'cu', which is related to Dutch 'koe' and German 'Kuh'. Cows have been domesticated for thousands of years and have played a vital role in human agriculture and food production. They are revered in many cultures for their importance in providing milk, meat, and other resources.

See also: coward, cowboy, cowgirl, cowhand, cowherd, cowman, cowpoke, cowpuncher, cows, cowshed.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,654, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.