Definition

An extinct species of large wild ox that lived in Europe and is considered the ancestor of modern domestic cattle.

Example

The aurochs roamed the forests of Europe thousands of years ago before becoming extinct.

Conversation

Did you know that the aurochs was a real animal?

Yeah, I've heard about it! They were massive wild oxen, right?

Exactly! It's fascinating how they are the ancestors of modern cattle.

I wonder what it would have been like to see an aurochs in the wild.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Aurochs → The word 'aurochs' comes from Old English 'earc' (meaning wild ox) and is derived from Proto-Germanic '*auroks' (meaning aurochs or wild ox). The term refers to a large wild cattle species that once roamed Europe, Asia, and North Africa.

Memory Tip

Think of the Old English word for wild ox, 'earc', to remember that 'aurochs' refers to this ancient wild cattle.

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