milk cow

noun

1. a cow that is raised for its milk rather than for beef.
2. Informal. a source of easily gained income; profitable venture:

   The new subsidiary turns out to be a real milk cow.

Word History and Origins

Origin of milk cow¹

late Middle English word dating back to 1400–50

Example Sentences

He came back and went off with the bawble proud and happy, and on Thursday brought me a milk cow which justified all his promises.

From Project Gutenberg

But one often reads of a milk-cow, so I supposed there must be some cows that are all for cream, if some are for milk.

From Project Gutenberg

He is strongly conscious of his own position as the common milk-cow; and what is he to do?

From Project Gutenberg

Among other good things we had a choice roast of beef which they informed me was from their very choice and only milk cow.

From Project Gutenberg

On his way he overtook a boy, a little fellow of eight or nine, driving a milk-cow ahead of him.

From Project Gutenberg