calving
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈkæv.ɪŋ/
KK: /ˈkæl.vɪŋ/
noun
Definition
The process of a cow or other animal giving birth to a calf, or the breaking away of ice from a glacier or iceberg.
Example
The calving season for cows usually occurs in the spring.
Conversation
Did you know that calving season is just around the corner?
Really? I love seeing all the new calves at the farm!
Yeah, it's such a cute sight when they start to wobble around.
Absolutely! It's amazing how quickly they learn to stand up.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
birthing
parturition
delivery
Antonyms
abortion
miscarriage
infertility
verb
Definition
The act of giving birth to a calf, typically used in reference to cows or other large mammals.
Example
The farmer is calving his cows in the spring.
Tense Forms
Past: calved
Past Participle: calved
Conversation
Did you see that video of the cows calving?
Yeah, it was so fascinating to watch!
I didn't realize how much care they need during calving.
Root Explanation
Calving originates from the Old English 'cealf' (meaning calf), which refers to the young of certain mammals, particularly cattle. The suffix '-ing' indicates the action or process of giving birth to calves. Thus, 'calving' means the process of giving birth to calves.
Memory Tip
Think of the word 'calf' for the young animal, and remember that 'calving' refers to the action of giving birth to calves.
Visually Confused Words
caving
incalving
scaling
craving
cavings
catling
carving
carling