bluetongue

American  

[bloo-tuhng] / ˈbluˌtʌŋ /

noun

Veterinary Pathology.

1. a viral disease of sheep and sometimes cattle, transmitted by biting insects and characterized by high fever, excessive salivation, swelling of the face and tongue, and cyanosis of the tongue.

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bluetongue ¹ British  

/ ˌbluːˈtʌŋ /

noun

1. an Australian lizard, Tiliqua scincoides , having a cobalt-blue tongue

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bluetongue ² British  

/ ˌbluːˈtʌŋ /

noun

1. vet science a viral disease of domestic and wild ruminants transmitted by arthropods and characterized by reproductive problems or vasculitis. Sheep, which are most frequently affected, develop swelling of the face and a cyanotic tongue

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Etymology

Origin of bluetongue

First recorded in 1860–65; blue + tongue

Example Sentences

"Certainly that second case of bluetongue has extended our surveillance area so we will be carrying out investigations throughout the area," Mr McKeown said.

From BBC • Dec. 6, 2025

Moves of species susceptible to bluetongue on or off premises within the TCZ are prohibited while officials carry out further investigations.

From BBC • Nov. 29, 2025

Other issues set to dominate include the ongoing row over changes to inheritance tax rules for farmers, and restrictions to trade along the Welsh border as a result of bluetongue disease.

From BBC • Jul. 20, 2025

Sheep, cattle and goats from across the border have been banned this year as part of efforts to keep bluetongue out of Wales.

From BBC • Jul. 20, 2025

Restrictions brought in to try to prevent the bluetongue virus spreading to livestock in Wales are futile and impractical, farming unions have said.

From BBC • Jun. 28, 2025