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

See Examples For:

bluetongue

A new heat map, external has also been published so farmers can see where suspected and confirmed cases of bluetongue were being reported, said Defra.

From BBC ● Sep. 11, 2026

He encouraged farmers to be "vigilant" and "aware of the signs of bluetongue".

From BBC ● Dec. 6, 2025

"The news of a suspect bluetongue outbreak in Northern Ireland is unwelcome," he said.

From BBC ● Nov. 29, 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

On 10 November, the Welsh government eased bluetongue restrictions by issuing a nationwide restricted zone, allowing cross-border movement.

From BBC ● Nov. 29, 2025