Definition

A term used to refer to a period of sexual receptivity in female mammals, also known as estrus.

Example

The female dog was in oestrum, attracting male dogs with her scent.

Conversation

I read an interesting article about animal behavior today.

Oh really? What was it about?

It discussed the concept of oestrum and how it affects mating seasons.

That sounds fascinating! I've never heard that term before.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Oestrum is derived from the Latin word "oestrus" (meaning a gadfly or a state of intense sexual desire). The term is often associated with the biological phenomenon of estrus, which refers to the period of sexual receptivity in female mammals. Thus, oestrum refers to the state of being in heat or the period of sexual excitement in animals.

Memory Tip

Think of the Latin word for a gadfly, which stirs up intense feelings, to remember that 'oestrum' refers to a state of sexual excitement or heat.

Visually Confused Words