Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Zebu Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🐄
Add to dictionary

zebu

[ˈziːbuː ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

animal type

A zebu is a type of domestic cattle known for its distinctive hump over the shoulders and long, pendulous ears. They are primarily found in tropical regions and are highly adapted to heat and drought. Zebus are commonly used as draught animals and are valued for their milk and meat.

Synonyms

Bos indicus, humped cattle.

Examples of usage

  • The farmer raised zebu for their resilience in the hot climate.
  • Zebu cattle are often used in traditional ceremonies.
  • In many cultures, zebu are considered symbols of wealth.
  • The distinctive hump of a zebu makes it easily recognizable.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In some cultures, zebus are considered sacred and are often associated with various religious rituals and festivities.
  • Zebus play an important role in the livelihoods of many farmers, providing milk, labor, and companionship in rural communities.

Science

  • Zebus are well-adapted to hot climates, having traits that help them survive heat stress, such as large ears for cooling.
  • There are several breeds of zebu, each adapted to specific environments and purposes, reflecting their diverse use.

Agriculture

  • Zebus are often used as draught animals, especially in regions where machinery is less accessible, helping with plowing and transportation.
  • Their ability to graze on poor-quality forage makes them vital in areas where other livestock might struggle to survive.

Pop Culture

  • Zebus have appeared in various media including documentaries about livestock, highlighting their unique adaptations and importance to agriculture.
  • In some regions, festivals celebrate zebus, emphasizing their role in local farming culture and traditions.

Origin of 'zebu'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'zebu' comes from the Portuguese word 'zebu,' which was derived from the Arabic word 'dhab,' referring to a humpbacked cow.
  • The history of the zebu as a domesticated animal goes back thousands of years, predominantly in South Asia and Africa.

The term 'zebu' descends from the Latin word 'zebus', which came from the Greek word 'zēbos', meaning 'cattle'. The origins of zebu cattle can be traced back to ancient domestication in the Indian subcontinent, with their initial uses primarily in pastoralist societies for labor, milk, and meat. Unique features such as their hump, large ears, and tolerance to heat are adaptations that developed over thousands of years, making them suitable for harsh environments. Over time, zebus spread to other parts of the world, including Africa and the Americas, where they have played significant roles in agriculture and local cultures. Their adaptability and utility have made them one of the most important livestock species in many tropical and subtropical regions.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #36,877, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.