Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˈbriːdɪŋ/

Definitions

• The process of producing offspring through reproduction, especially in animals or plants.
• The cultivation or production of something by selective mating, in the case of animals or plants.
• The act or process of raising or nurturing a particular kind of animal, plant, or organism for a specific purpose.
• The practice of training or teaching, often used in the context of developing specific qualities or skills in an individual.

Usage Examples

• The breeding of horses for racing requires specialized knowledge and skills.
• Selective breeding has been used for centuries to enhance desirable traits in domestic animals.
• She focused on the breeding of rare flowers to increase their population.
• Good breeding and manners are valued in many cultures as indicators of upbringing.

Etymology

The word "breeding" comes from the Old English word "bredan," which means "to produce, create offspring." It has been used in the context of animal husbandry and selective cultivation since the early Middle Ages. Over time, the term expanded to encompass the nurturing and cultivating of various traits, including those related to social status and manners.

Synonyms

• Reproduction
• Procreation
• Propagation
• Rearing
• Production
• Husbandry

Antonyms

• Extinction
• Destruction
• Decay

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In American English, the word "breeding" may be pronounced with a slightly stronger emphasis on the first syllable: /ˈbriːdɪŋ/.
• In British English, the "r" sound in "breeding" is often softer: /ˈbriːdɪŋ/ with a lighter r.

Historical Usage

The term "breeding" has been used for centuries, primarily in the context of agriculture and animal husbandry. In the past, it referred mostly to the controlled reproduction of livestock or crops to ensure desirable traits. Over time, the concept of breeding expanded to include human social behaviors, referring to the manners and upbringing of individuals within certain social classes.

Cultural Nuances

In some cultures, breeding extends beyond the biological act to include social upbringing. The term "breeding" can have connotations of class and refinement, often referring to the proper upbringing or manners of an individual. For example, in the phrase "good breeding," the focus is on social behavior and etiquette rather than biological lineage. In the context of animals, breeding often involves the selection of traits to enhance certain characteristics, such as intelligence or beauty in pets, or high yield in agricultural breeds.

More Information

Breeding is a vital practice in both agriculture and the pet industry, contributing to the creation of improved animal and plant breeds. Through selective breeding, desirable traits such as disease resistance, productivity, or physical characteristics can be passed down through generations. However, ethical considerations around breeding, especially in pets, have led to discussions about the responsibility of breeders and the potential risks of inbreeding. Additionally, the concept of breeding continues to be intertwined with ideas of social class and propriety, reflecting the diverse ways in which the term is used in different contexts.