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Farrowing Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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farrowing

[หˆfษ›rษ™สŠษชล‹ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

animal breeding

Farrowing is the process of giving birth in pigs. It involves the sow (female pig) delivering a litter of piglets. This process is critical for pig farming and requires careful management to ensure the health of both the sow and her offspring.

Synonyms

birthing, parturition.

Examples of usage

  • The farmer monitored the sow during farrowing.
  • Farrowing is scheduled to optimize piglet survival.
  • Proper nutrition is crucial during the farrowing period.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Animal Husbandry

  • Farrowing typically happens twice a year for a sow, with each litter consisting of several piglets, often 6 to 12.
  • Pig farmers often create a farrowing crate to provide a safe space for the mother and her newborn piglets during the vulnerable early days.

Science

  • The duration of the farrowing process can vary, but it's generally quick, lasting about 2 to 5 hours.
  • A piglet is usually born every 15 to 20 minutes, allowing the mother to manage multiple births efficiently.

Cultural Significance

  • In some cultures, piglets born during a new moon are considered to bring good fortune to the farmer.
  • Farrowing seasons are often linked with agricultural festivals, celebrating the cycle of life and growth in farming communities.

Psychology

  • Studies have shown that sows exhibit nurturing behaviors immediately after farrowing, which is crucial for the survival of the piglets.
  • Understanding maternal instincts in pigs helps farmers improve breeding programs and animal welfare in modern farming.

Origin of 'farrowing'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'farrowing' comes from the Old English word 'farren', which means 'to carry' or 'to bear'.
  • Historically, this word was used primarily in agricultural contexts to denote the birthing of young animals, especially pigs.

The term 'farrowing' originates from Old English, where 'farren' meant to give birth. It is derived from the Proto-Germanic word 'farwลnฤ…', which also relates to the act of being pregnant or delivering. The word has been used in agriculture for centuries to describe the birthing process of pigs specifically. As pig farming became more organized, the term gained importance in texts related to animal husbandry. Today, farrowing is recognized not just as a biological event but also as a significant phase in the management of livestock for meat production.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,830, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.