dehorn

/di:'hɔ:n/

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Explanation of the Word "Dehorn"

Definition:
The verb "dehorn" means to remove the horns from an animal. This is often done to prevent injury to other animals or to the farmers handling them. It can also refer to preventing the growth of horns in certain animals.

Usage Instructions:

• Form: "Dehorn" is a verb, so it can be used in different tenses. For example:
  • Present: dehorn
  • Past: dehorned
  • Present participle: dehorning

Example Sentences:

• Simple: The farmer decided to dehorn the young bulls to keep everyone safe.
• Past tense: Last summer, we dehorned the goats to prevent them from hurting each other.
• Present participle: Dehorning is a common practice in cattle farming.

Advanced Usage:

In more advanced contexts, "dehorn" can also refer to practices in animal husbandry where the focus is on animal welfare and safety. For example, veterinarians might discuss the ethical implications of dehorning and alternative methods to manage horns in livestock.

Word Variants:

• Dehorned (adj.): Referring to an animal that has had its horns removed.
  • Example: The dehorned cattle are less aggressive.
• Dehorning (noun): The process of removing horns.
  • Example: Dehorning can be done at a young age to minimize stress.

Different Meanings:

In a more metaphorical sense, "dehorn" can mean to reduce someone's power or ability to cause harm. - For example: "The new regulations aim to dehorn the influence of large corporations in politics."

Synonyms:

• Remove horns
• Trim horns (though "trim" may imply a less complete removal)
• Disbud (specifically for young animals)

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

There are no widely recognized idioms or phrasal verbs that specifically use "dehorn," but related phrases may include: - "Take the horns off" which is a more literal interpretation of the act. - "Cut down to size" can be used metaphorically to describe reducing someone's power or influence.

Summary:

"Dehorn" is a specific term primarily used in agriculture and animal care. It describes the act of removing or preventing the growth of horns in animals to promote safety and reduce aggression.

Academic

Verb

1. take the horns off (an animal)
2. prevent the growth of horns of certain animals