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Herded Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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herded

[hɜrdəd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

animal management

To herd means to gather, direct, or drive a group of animals, often livestock, to a specified location. This skill is crucial in agriculture and farming, where animals need to be moved from one place to another for feeding, breeding, or milking. Herding can involve using dogs or other techniques to guide the animals effectively. The term can also be applied metaphorically to mean guiding people or things towards a common goal or location.

Synonyms

direct, drive, gather, lead.

Examples of usage

  • The shepherd herded the sheep into the pen.
  • They herded the cattle into the barn before the storm.
  • Farmers often herd their livestock to different pastures.
  • The dog expertly herded the ducks towards the pond.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Practices

  • In various cultures, traditional herding practices have been celebrated in festivals, showcasing bond between humans and animals.
  • The role of a herder is often romanticized in literature, representing freedom and a connection to nature.
  • Certain tribes around the world, like the Maasai in East Africa, are known for their intricate herding techniques and nomadic lifestyle.

Science

  • Herding behaviors are not just for domesticated animals; wild animals like elephants also display herd dynamics for protection.
  • Research in animal behavior shows that herding can help in reducing stress and promoting survival among species.
  • Herd mentality is a psychological concept where individuals in a group follow the actions of others, often losing their personal decision-making.

Literature

  • In many novels, herding symbolizes teamwork and community, reflecting how individuals work together towards a shared goal.
  • Some famous stories, like 'The Little Prince' by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, use herding as a metaphor for relationships and responsibility.
  • Herding imagery often appears in poetry to illustrate human connection to nature and the instinctual behaviors we share with animals.

Agriculture

  • Effective herding techniques can significantly improve the efficiency of farm operations and livestock management.
  • The introduction of herding dogs has transformed how herding is done, showcasing the collaboration between humans and animals.
  • Modern technology, such as drones, is beginning to change traditional herding methods, allowing for more precise management of livestock.

Origin of 'herded'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'herd' comes from the Old English 'herdian,' which means to guard or to keep.
  • Historically, herding has been essential for farming communities to move livestock to graze.
  • The term evolved from being a verb for managing animals to also describe groups of people in some contexts.

The word 'herd' originates from the Old English word 'herde', which is related to the Germanic root *herdaz, meaning 'to protect or guard'. It has undergone various transformations throughout history, with its earliest usages dating back to around the 12th century. In its original sense, 'herd' denoted a group of animals kept together under the care of a person. Over time, the meaning expanded to include not only the act of managing such groups but also the people who perform this task. The verb form 'herded' emerged as a way to describe the action associated with this practice. The conceptual link between animal management and collective behavior is deeply embedded in various cultures, particularly in agrarian societies, where herding is integral to sustainable farming practices.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,473, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.