estrous cycle

[ es-truhs sahy-kuhl ]

noun

, Zoology.

1. a series of physiological changes in sexual and other organs of most female mammals, extending from one period of heat to the next and accompanied by behavioral changes indicating interest in mating.

estrous cycle

/ ĕs′trəs /

1. The series of changes that occur in the female of most mammals from one period of estrus to another. The estrous cycle usually takes place during the period known as the breeding season, which ensures that young are born at a time when the chance of survival is greatest. The length of the cycle varies from species to species.

Word History and Origins

Origin of estrous cycle¹

First recorded in 1895–1900