Part of Speech

Noun (plural)

Pronunciation

/ˈkætəl/

Definitions

1. Large domesticated mammals that are raised for meat, milk, leather, and other products, typically having cloven hooves and a large body.

2. A collective term for cows, bulls, and steers, often referring to the group as a whole.

3. Informally, used to refer to a herd of domesticated farm animals in general, though usually specific to bovines.

Usage Examples

1. "The farmer raised cattle for milk production on his farm."

2. "The herd of cattle moved slowly through the field."

Etymology

Derived from the Old French word "catel," meaning "property, goods, livestock," which itself comes from the Medieval Latin "capitale," meaning "property or wealth." The word is related to the Latin "caput," meaning "head," referring to a head of livestock or a group of animals.

Synonyms

1. Livestock

2. Bovines

3. Cows (in general use)

4. Herd (when referring to a group)

Antonyms

1. Wildlife

2. Pets (in certain contexts)

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

In some regions, the pronunciation of "cattle" may slightly change, with some dialects placing emphasis on different syllables. For example, in some southern parts of the United States, it may sound like "cay-tuhl."

Historical Usage

The word "cattle" has been used in English since the 14th century, originally referring to movable property or livestock. Over time, the term became more specifically associated with bovine animals, distinguishing them from other forms of livestock.

Cultural Nuances

Cattle hold significant cultural importance in many societies, particularly in agricultural communities. In India, for example, cattle are revered, and cows are often considered sacred in Hindu culture. In contrast, in Western cultures, cattle are primarily seen as livestock for meat and dairy production.

More Information

Cattle are among the most important animals raised by humans for agricultural purposes. They provide essential products like milk, meat, leather, and even labor in some regions. The care and breeding of cattle have a long history, and they are a symbol of wealth in many cultures. Modern cattle farming, however, faces challenges such as the ethical treatment of animals, environmental concerns, and sustainability.