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Heifers Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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heifers

[หˆhษ›fษ™rz ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

livestock

Young female cattle that have not yet borne a calf.

Examples of usage

  • Heifers are typically raised for breeding purposes.
  • The farmer purchased several heifers to add to his herd.
  • The heifers grazed peacefully in the meadow.
  • The heifer gave birth to her first calf.
  • The heifer was not yet old enough to produce milk.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Agriculture

  • Heifers are important in farming because they grow up to become productive cows that provide milk and calves.
  • Farmers often raise heifers separately to monitor their growth and health until they reach maturity.
  • The age at which a heifer becomes a cow can vary, but it usually happens around 1 to 2 years old.

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, heifers are seen as symbols of prosperity and fertility, often featured in rural folklore.
  • Heifer international is a non-profit organization that focuses on ending poverty and hunger through livestock, emphasizing the heifer's role in agriculture.

Biology

  • Heifers undergo growth spurts as they mature, reaching full size around 2-3 years.
  • They typically have different dietary needs compared to adult cows, requiring more protein for growth.

Economics

  • Heifers can be considered valuable assets in a farm's economy, providing future income through milk and offspring.
  • In some markets, the price of heifers can fluctuate based on demand for meat and milk products.

Origin of 'heifers'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'heifer' comes from Middle English 'hefre', which traces back to Old English 'hรฆfere', meaning a young cow.
  • The term is thought to have Germanic roots, linking it to similar terms in German and Dutch, highlighting a shared agricultural heritage.

The word 'heifer' originates from Old English 'heahfore' which meant a young cow or bullock. It has been used in English since the 13th century to refer to young female cattle.

See also: heifer.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,584, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.