cattle

[kat-l]

noun

(used with a plural verb)

1. bovine animals, especially domesticated members of the genus Bos.

2. Bible.,  such animals together with other domesticated quadrupeds, as horses, swine, etc.

3. Disparaging.,  human beings, especially in a large, unruly crowd.

cattle

/ ˈkætəl /

noun

1. bovid mammals of the tribe Bovini (bovines), esp those of the genus Bos

2. Also called: domestic cattle. any domesticated bovine mammals, esp those of the species Bos taurus (domestic ox)

Other Word Forms

• cattleless adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of cattle¹

1175–1225; Middle English catel < Old North French: (personal) property < Medieval Latin capitāle wealth; capital ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of cattle¹

C13: from Old Northern French catel, Old French chatel _chattel

Example Sentences

The state's soy bean farmers and cattle ranchers have felt the pinch from tariffs and trade disputes.

Read more on BBC

He recalled that he and his friends had been herding cattle near the Mauritanian border, and had stopped by a well to get fresh water when they saw a cloud of dust in the distance.

Read more on BBC

So the Messrs. Hemsworth get on their motorcycles and set out to tour the region where the actor spent childhood and his dad wrangled cattle.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Locals say that beyond the cattle and tourism, Hokkaido has long lacked other industries.

Read more on BBC

Illegal cattle ranching has already destroyed millions of acres.

Read more on Science Daily

Related Words

• herd 
• oxen