breed

Part of Speech

Verb, Noun

Pronunciation

/briːd/

Definitions

• Verb: To cause (animals or plants) to reproduce, or to create a particular type of offspring through selective reproduction.
• Verb: To cultivate, develop, or grow something, such as a quality or skill.
• Noun: A particular variety or type of animal or plant, often created through selective breeding.
• Noun: A group of animals or plants that share specific characteristics or lineage.

Usage Examples

• Farmers breed cows for specific traits like milk production.
• She has a talent for breeding dogs of various breeds.
• The farm specializes in breeding purebred horses for racing.
• The company aims to breed new ideas through creative collaboration.

Etymology

Originating from Old English "brēdan" meaning to produce, bear, or give birth, the word "breed" has been used in English to refer to the reproduction of animals or plants for specific traits. The concept of breeding as selective reproduction emerged over time as humans began to cultivate and manage animal and plant populations.

Synonyms

• Produce
• Generate
• Reproduce
• Cultivate
• Develop

Antonyms

• Destroy
• Eradicate
• Eliminate
• Disband

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In American English, "breed" is commonly pronounced with a strong "ee" sound: /briːd/.
• In British English, there may be slight variation in the vowel sound, though the pronunciation remains similar: /briːd/.

Historical Usage

The word "breed" has been used for centuries to describe the act of reproducing animals for selective traits. Historically, it was crucial in agriculture and animal husbandry for the purpose of improving livestock, with ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians and Greeks breeding animals for specific purposes, including work, food, and companionship. Selective breeding techniques have advanced significantly over time, leading to the development of purebred dogs, horses, and other animals.

Cultural Nuances

In many cultures, breeding animals has been a significant activity, linked to wealth, status, and survival. The concept of breeding has cultural importance in the world of competitive animals, such as racehorses, dogs, and livestock. In some cultures, selective breeding is tied to religious or ritual practices, where certain animals are bred for symbolic or ceremonial purposes. Breeding has also become an essential practice for conserving endangered species and for scientific research.

More Information

The concept of breeding extends beyond animals, reaching into the realm of plants, ideas, and even human endeavors. Selective breeding of plants has contributed to the development of improved crop varieties, leading to increased agricultural production. In modern times, genetic engineering is sometimes used to selectively breed animals and plants for desired traits, though it raises ethical considerations. The word "breed" is also used metaphorically to describe the fostering or cultivating of qualities, such as in the phrases "breeding talent" or "breeding success."