livestock
C1Pronunciation
UK
- /lˈaɪvstɒk/
US
- /ˈlaɪvˌstɑk/
Description
- farm animals
- animals raised for food
- animals kept on farms
Livestock refers to animals that people keep on farms for use or for sale. These animals are usually raised for meat, milk, eggs, wool, or other useful products. Common examples include cattle, sheep, pigs, goats, and chickens. The word is used in everyday farming talk as well as in business and trade, as in phrases like "livestock market" or "livestock farming." It does not usually refer to pets or wild animals.
The word "livestock" refers to domesticated animals that are kept by people, usually on farms, for practical purposes. These animals may be raised for food, such as meat, milk, or eggs, or for materials such as wool and leather. In many cases, they are also bred and sold as part of farming and trade. Common types of livestock include cattle, sheep, pigs, goats, and poultry.
The idea of livestock is closely tied to agriculture and rural life, but the word also appears often in economic, legal, and environmental contexts. People talk about livestock production, livestock transport, livestock diseases, and livestock prices. In that sense, the word is broader than simply saying "farm animals" because it often points to animals as part of a working farm system or industry.
Historically, owning livestock was often a sign of wealth and survival because these animals provided food, clothing, and labor. Today, the word still carries that practical sense. When someone refers to livestock, they usually mean animals kept for farming purposes, not household pets, zoo animals, or wild creatures. The word helps describe the link between people, animals, and food production in a clear and useful way.
Examples
- 1
Farm animals
The farm keeps cattle, sheep, and other livestock.
- 2
Flood preparation
Farmers moved their livestock to higher ground before the flood.
- 3
Animal disease
The disease spread quickly among livestock in the area.
- 4
Animal feed
The price of livestock feed has risen sharply this year.
Phrase
livestock feed
food given to farm animals
- 5
Regulations
New livestock regulations require better records for each animal.
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- livestocknoun