Oxen: meaning, definitions and examples

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oxen

[ˈɒks(ə)n ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

Oxen are adult castrated male cattle used for plowing fields and pulling heavy loads. They are known for their strength and endurance.

Word	Description / Examples
oxen	Typically referred to adult male cattle that have been trained as draft animals and are often used in farming or heavy labor. The farmer relied on his oxen to plow the fields The oxen pulled the cart effortlessly across the rocky terrain
cattle	A general term that refers to domesticated bovines, including cows, bulls, and steers. It's the plural form and is often used to describe the entire group. The cattle grazed peacefully in the open field The rancher counted his cattle before closing the gate
bullocks	Often used in British English to describe young bulls that are castrated and usually raised for beef production or draft work. The rancher raised a herd of bullocks for beef The bullocks were yoked together to pull the heavy load
steers	Refers to male cattle that have been castrated and raised for beef. They are often distinguished from bulls, which are non-castrated males. The steers were fattened up for slaughter The auction featured several healthy steers

The word 'oxen' comes from the Old English term 'oxa', indicating it has been used for many centuries.
It is a unique plural form in English; usually, animals end with an 's', but here, it changes to 'en'.

In ancient civilizations, oxen were crucial for agricultural practices, turning the soil and transporting goods.
They were often used in pairs or teams to increase their power, much like modern-day machinery.

Oxen are celebrated in various cultures around the world, often featured in harvest festivals and traditional celebrations.
In some cultures, seeing a pair of oxen is considered good luck, symbolizing hard work and prosperity.

Oxen are usually castrated males, which makes them easier to handle and less aggressive than bulls.
Their ability to digest tough grasses makes them essential in ecosystems where grasslands prevail.

Oxen have appeared in various literary works, symbolizing strength, dedication, and the connection between humans and nature.
In children's books, they are often portrayed as friendly and hardworking, teaching values of cooperation and effort.

Translations of the word "oxen" in other languages:

🇵🇹 bois

🇮🇳 बैल

🇩🇪 Ochsen

🇮🇩 lembu

🇺🇦 бики

🇵🇱 woły

🇯🇵 雄牛 (おうし)

🇫🇷 bœufs

🇪🇸 bueyes

🇹🇷 öküzler

🇰🇷 황소

🇸🇦 ثيران

🇨🇿 voli

🇸🇰 voly

🇨🇳 公牛

🇸🇮 voli

🇮🇸 uxar

🇰🇿 өгіздер

🇬🇪 ხარები

🇦🇿 öküzlər

🇲🇽 bueyes