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Heifer Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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heifer

[ˈhɛfər ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

farm animal

A heifer is a young female cow that has not yet had a calf. Heifers are typically raised to become dairy cows or beef cattle.

Synonyms

female calf, young cow.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
heifer

Used to describe a young female cow that has not yet borne a calf. Commonly used in farming and livestock management.

  • The heifer grazed peacefully in the pasture.
  • The farmer decided to sell one of his heifers at the market.
young cow

A general term for a cow that is young, but can be more developed than a calf. This phrase is more versatile and less specific about the cow's reproductive status.

  • The young cow followed its mother across the field.
  • The young cow seemed curious about the new barn.
female calf

Refers to a young, newborn female cow. This term is suitable when discussing the very early stages of a cow's life.

  • The veterinarian examined the newborn female calf.
  • Raising a female calf requires careful attention to its diet and health.

Examples of usage

  • Heifers are usually bred for the first time at around 15 months of age.
  • Once a heifer has her first calf, she is referred to as a cow.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Agriculture

  • In many farming cultures, raising heifers is crucial as they eventually produce milk and help sustain the herd.
  • The transition from heifer to cow is an important milestone in livestock farming, affecting breeding and milk production schedules.

Cultural Significance

  • In various cultures, heifers have been symbols of fertility, growth, and prosperity, often featured in folklore and traditional farming rituals.
  • In some Native American traditions, the procurement of heifers has been celebrated as a vital aspect of their agrarian lifestyle.

Livestock Management

  • Heifers are typically bred at around 15 months of age, ensuring they are mature enough for pregnancy and future milk production.
  • Proper care and nutrition during the heifer stage are essential to ensure healthy growth and productivity in the future.

Science

  • Research in animal science often focuses on heifer development to optimize breeding outcomes and enhance milk yield.
  • Studies show that environmental conditions and nutrition during the heifer phase have lasting impacts on milk production in adulthood.

Origin of 'heifer'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'heifer' comes from the Old English term 'heahfer', which referred to a young cow or female calf.
  • Historically, cow-related terms were important for agricultural societies, reflecting their dependence on livestock for survival and economy.

The word 'heifer' has its origins in Old English, where it was spelled as 'heahfore'. The term has been used for centuries to refer to young female cows. Heifers play an important role in the dairy and beef industries, as they are raised to eventually become productive cows for milk or meat production.

See also: heifers.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,422, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.