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ox

draft animal / bovine
Noun
pl: oxen

This term specifically denotes a bovine trained for heavy labor, carrying a connotation of strength, endurance, and submission to human direction. It is distinct from cattle or cows in its functional role as a draft animal. Grammatically, the plural form is irregular. While oxen is the standard plural, the word follows an archaic Germanic pattern of pluralization that differs from the standard addition of s.

Meanings

Noun

A domesticated bovine animal, typically a castrated male, used as a draft animal for pulling heavy loads or plowing fields.

"The farmer used a strong ox to pull the plow across the field."

Noun

A bovine animal of any kind, especially one used for labor.

"Ancient civilizations relied on the ox for transporting large stones."

Last Updated: June 14, 2026Report an Error