Foaling: meaning, definitions and examples

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foaling

 

[ˈfoʊlɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

horse birth

Foaling refers to the process of a mare giving birth to a foal. This event typically occurs after an approximately eleven-month gestation period. The foal is usually born during the spring or early summer when environmental conditions are favorable for the newborn. During foaling, the mare may display signs of discomfort and restlessness as she prepares for the delivery. Understanding the signs of impending foaling can help caretakers provide timely assistance if needed.

Synonyms

birth, delivery, parturition.

Examples of usage

  • The mare was foaling in the early morning.
  • I witnessed the foaling process for the first time.
  • Veterinarians are trained to assist during foaling.
  • Foaling season is crucial for breeders.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'foal' comes from the Old English 'faelan', meaning 'to bring forth' or 'give birth'.
  • It's believed that the term has roots in terms for young animals across several Germanic languages.

Animal Behavior

  • Foals can stand and walk just a few hours after birth, which is vital for their survival and to keep up with the herd.
  • A mare (female horse) forms a strong bond with her foal, spending time together to ensure the foal learns to graze and socialize.

Agriculture

  • Foaling typically occurs in the warmer months to ensure the foal has access to ample grass and warmth for growth.
  • Breeders often keep a close watch during foaling since complications can occur, and timely assistance can be lifesaving.

Cultural Significance

  • In many equestrian cultures, the health of a foal is celebrated, symbolizing hope and vitality for the lineage.
  • Certain horse breeds have rituals and festivals dedicated to foaling season, including blessings for the foals to ensure their future success.

Training and Development

  • Foals are often handled gently and positively from birth to ensure they grow to be well-adjusted adult horses.
  • Early socialization and training can begin shortly after foaling, which helps establish a trusting relationship with humans.

Translations

Translations of the word "foaling" in other languages:

🇵🇹 parto de potro

🇮🇳 घोड़े का जन्म

🇩🇪 Fohlengeburt

🇮🇩 kelahiran anak kuda

🇺🇦 народження жеребеняти

🇵🇱 poród źrebięcia

🇯🇵 馬の出産

🇫🇷 naissance de poulain

🇪🇸 nacimiento de potro

🇹🇷 tay doğumu

🇰🇷 망아지 출산

🇸🇦 ولادة المهرة

🇨🇿 narození hříběte

🇸🇰 narodenie žriebäťa

🇨🇳 马驹出生

🇸🇮 rojstvo žrebička

🇮🇸 fólingur

🇰🇿 жеребенің тууы

🇬🇪 ჯირანის დაბადება

🇦🇿 at doğumu

🇲🇽 nacimiento de potro

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #36,707, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.