Steers Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฎ
steers
[stษชrz ]
Definition
on a farm
Adult male cattle are called steers. They are castrated males that are raised for beef production. Steers are usually larger and heavier than heifers, which are female cattle that have not yet had a calf. Steers are commonly used in beef farming.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| steers |
Same as the first entry for 'steers'. This repetition seems unintended.
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| cattle |
A general term that refers to domesticated bovines including cows, bulls, steers, and heifers. This term is used broadly in agriculture, farming, and ranching contexts.
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| bulls |
Refers to mature, uncastrated male bovines. Bulls are often kept for breeding purposes and are known for their strength and aggressive behavior. They are often referenced in discussions about breeding and livestock management.
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| oxen |
Refers to adult male bovines that have been castrated and trained to work, often used to pull carts or plows. They are less common in modern farming but still used in some traditional or less mechanized settings.
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Examples of usage
- Farmers raise steers for meat production.
- Steers are often fed a diet high in grains to promote muscle growth.
- Cattle ranchers keep steers separate from the cows and calves.
- The steers in the herd were all tagged for identification purposes.
- Steers are typically sold to meat processing plants once they reach a certain weight.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Agriculture
- Steers are often raised in herds, and they play a crucial role in the beef industry.
- Farmers often choose to castrate male calves to make them steers, as they tend to be less aggressive and easier to manage.
- Certain breeds of steers are specifically raised for their high-quality meat and better weight gain.
Cultural Importance
- In many cultures, the raising of steers is part of traditional farming practices and local cuisines.
- Rodeos often feature steer wrestling, highlighting the animal's strength and agility.
- Steers are celebrated in various festivals where livestock shows and competitions take place.
Nutrition
- Beef from steers is a significant source of protein for many diets around the world.
- The nutritional profile of beef includes essential nutrients like iron, zinc, and vitamin B12.
- Grass-fed steers generally produce healthier meat compared to grain-fed ones.
Environmental Impact
- The raising of steers contributes to carbon emissions, which has raised environmental concerns.
- Sustainable farming practices are being promoted to reduce the ecological footprint of cattle farming.
- The impact of beef consumption on land use and food resources has sparked discussions on diet choices.
Origin of 'steers'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from Old English 'styr', which means a young bull.
- In some languages, such as Spanish, the word for steer is 'buey', which also means an ox.
- The term 'steers' has been used in English since at least the 13th century.
The word 'steers' originated from the Old English word 'steor', which meant 'bullock' or 'young ox'. Cattle have been domesticated for thousands of years, with steers playing a vital role in providing meat for human consumption. The practice of castrating male cattle to create steers has been common in many cultures around the world to improve meat quality and temperament. Today, steers continue to be an important part of the beef industry.