Dogie Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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dogie
[ˈdoʊɡi ]
Definition
animal context
A 'dogie' refers to a motherless calf, particularly in the context of ranching and cattle herding. This term is commonly used in the American West and is integral to cowboy culture. Dogies may require special attention as they lack maternal care, making them vulnerable. Ranchers often take on the responsibility of caring for these animals until they can stand on their own.
Synonyms
calf, orphaned calf, young cattle.
Examples of usage
- The cowboy rescued a dogie from the herd.
- She bottle-fed the dogie until it was strong enough.
- Dogies often become attached to their caretakers.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Cattle Ranching
- Ranchers often use the term 'dogie' to refer to calves that are unable to be reunited with their herds, making them vulnerable.
- A 'dogie' can also refer to a calf that is weak or sickly, requiring extra care and attention in ranching.
Pop Culture
- The word 'dogie' has appeared in cowboy songs and Western films, often depicting the life and struggles of cattle herders.
- The character Dogie in the 1950s animated series 'Merrie Melodies' was inspired by the idea of playful, mischievous calves.
Agricultural Practices
- Caring for dogies often involves bottle-feeding and special nutrition to ensure healthy growth before they can catch up with their peers.
- Some ranchers might keep dogies as pets, highlighting the bond between human caregivers and these young animals.
Cultural Symbolism
- 'Dogies' are often considered symbols of innocence and vulnerability in various folk tales and stories from ranching communities.
- In ranch folklore, helping a dogie can symbolize compassion and responsibility towards the weaker members of a community.
Origin of 'dogie'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'dogie' likely originates from the Spanish word 'doguillo', which means 'puppy' or 'little dog', reflecting its association with young animals.
- In the American West, this word was popularized among cattle ranchers and cowboys in the late 19th century.
The word 'dogie' is believed to have originated in the late 19th century, emerging from the cultural lexicon of American cowboys. It's derived from the Spanish word 'dogie,' which was used to describe a motherless calf. This term reflects the lifestyle and practices of cattle ranching in the American West. It is indicative of the close relationship between cowboys and their livestock, emphasizing the care and responsibility that is associated with tending to these animals. The word has since cemented itself in the vocabulary surrounding ranching and cattle herding, embodying a specific aspect of agricultural life.