cow

cow · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A fully grown female animal of a domesticated breed of ox, kept for milk or meat.

  2. 2.

    To cause someone to submit through intimidation.

  3. 3.

    (Informal) A female of certain other large animals, such as elephants or whales.

  4. 4.

    (Offensive, slang) An unpleasant or disliked woman.

Forms

plural: cows

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    sacred cow — something regarded as immune from criticism
  • •
    till the cows come home — for a very long time
  • •
    have a cow — to become very upset or angry
  • •
    cash cow — a reliable source of income

Related words

See also: bull, calf, cattle, ox
Synonyms: bovine, cattle

Etymology

From Old English "cu," from Proto-Germanic "*kouz," related to Latin "bos" and Greek "bous" (ox).