dehorn

[ dee-hawrn ]

verb (used with object)

1. to remove the horns of (cattle).
2. to prevent the formation or growth of horns in (cattle), as by cauterization.
3. Horticulture. to prune (a tree, shrub, etc.) by shortening major branches to an extreme degree.

dehorn

/ diːˈhɔːn /

verb

1. to remove or prevent the growth of the horns of (cattle, sheep, or goats)
2. to cut back (the larger limbs of a tree) drastically

Derived Forms

• deˈhorner, noun

Other Words From

• de·horner noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of dehorn¹

An Americanism dating back to 1885–90; de- + horn

Example Sentences

First time pa heard 'm he says when he come home, 'That choir 'll never succeed till they dehorn Alvy,' he says.

From Project Gutenberg

Mr. Kellogg: Isn't it better to dehorn it and get some new shoots to graft?

From Project Gutenberg

I believe, too, you will find it an economy to dehorn these calves at branding time.

From Project Gutenberg

Before attempting to dehorn the animal, it should be securely controlled by ropes in a stanchion or by casting.

From Project Gutenberg