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Provender Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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provender

[หˆprษ’v.ษ™n.dษ™r ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

animal feed

Provender refers to food or fodder for animals, especially livestock. It is a term often used in agricultural contexts to describe the substances fed to farm animals, such as hay, grains, and forage. The word can also imply provisions for animals during a journey or in a stable. Understanding the correct type of provender for specific animals is crucial for their health and productivity.

Synonyms

feed, fodder, forage, pasturage.

Examples of usage

  • The farmer stocked up on provender for the winter months.
  • She filled the trough with fresh provender for the cattle.
  • The horse was given high-quality provender to ensure its energy levels were maintained.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Historical Usage

  • In medieval times, provender was essential for maintaining healthy livestock on farms and during travels.
  • The word was commonly used in literature and poetry to describe care for horses during wars.

Culinary Connection

  • While primarily for animals, understanding provender helps in sourcing ingredients for pet food.
  • The quality of provender affects the health and productivity of farm animals, impacting food supply chains.

Agriculture

  • Farmers often grow specific crops to serve as provender, like hay or grains.
  • Understanding the nutritional value of various provender types is crucial for animal husbandry.

Literature

  • Many classic novels feature provender as a symbol of sustenance or survival, often highlighting the relationship between humans and their animals.
  • Shakespeare referenced provender in his works, illustrating its importance in daily life during his time.

Origin of 'provender'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from Middle English 'provyder', which means to supply or provide.
  • It is derived from the Latin word 'providere', meaning 'to see ahead or make preparation'.
  • Over time, it has evolved to specifically refer to animal feed.

The term 'provender' has its origins in Middle English, derived from the Old French word 'provendre', which means to provide or to furnish. This, in turn, comes from the Latin word 'prลvฤ“rฤre', consisting of 'pro-' meaning 'for' and 'vฤ“rฤre' meaning 'to bring'. Historically, 'provender' was specifically used to denote not just any food but carefully selected feed made available for farm animals, especially in the context of preparations during the harvest season. The term dates back to the 14th century and was commonly used in agricultural literature, signifying the importance of proper nourishment for livestock in sustaining agricultural economies.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,628 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.