Herdsman Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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herdsman

[ˈhərdzmən ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

agriculture

A person who manages and tends to a herd of animals, typically cattle or sheep.

Synonyms

cowherd, rancher, shepherd.

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Word Description / Examples
herdsman

Someone who takes care of a group of animals, especially large livestock like cows, sheep, or goats, typically in open fields.

  • The herdsman guided the cattle across the pasture
cowherd

Specifically refers to a person who looks after cows, usually on a farm or in open fields.

  • As a cowherd, his main responsibility is to ensure the cows are well-fed and safe
shepherd

Someone who looks after sheep, typically guiding them to forage and protecting them from predators.

  • The shepherd led the flock up the hillside to graze
rancher

A person who owns or works on a large farm, especially one used for raising cattle, sheep, or horses.

  • The rancher spent his days tending to the livestock and maintaining the ranch

Examples of usage

  • The herdsman led the cattle to the grazing fields.
  • The herdsman ensures that the sheep are well-fed and healthy.
Context #2 | Noun

historical

In ancient times, a herdsman was often a respected member of the community responsible for the well-being of the livestock.

Synonyms

animal caregiver, livestock keeper.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
herdsman

Usually used in a rural or agricultural setting to describe a person who takes care of a herd of livestock, such as cows or sheep. It carries a traditional or rustic connotation.

  • The herdsman guided the cattle across the vast prairie.
  • Every morning, the herdsman would check on the livestock to ensure they were healthy.
livestock keeper

Specifically refers to someone responsible for maintaining and caring for groups of farm animals. This term is often used in a more formal or technical context.

  • The livestock keeper must abide by strict guidelines to ensure the animals' health and safety.
  • In her role as a livestock keeper, she oversees the management of hundreds of chickens and goats.
animal caregiver

A broader term that can be used in various settings, including urban or suburban, to describe anyone who takes care of animals, not limited to livestock.

  • The animal caregiver at the shelter ensures that all the pets are fed and properly looked after.
  • As an animal caregiver, she has a deep passion for the well-being of all creatures.

Examples of usage

  • The herdsman's role in ancient civilizations was crucial for the survival of the people.
  • The herdsman's knowledge of animal husbandry was highly valued.

Translations

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

Origin of 'herdsman'

The term 'herdsman' dates back to Old English and has been used for centuries to describe individuals who are responsible for managing herds of animals. In ancient societies, herdsman played a vital role in providing food and resources for communities. Over time, the role of a herdsman has evolved with advancements in agriculture and technology, but the fundamental responsibility of caring for livestock remains central to the term.


See also: herder, herding.