What does fatling mean?
Fatling refers to a young animal, especially a sheep or pig, raised for slaughter. This term is commonly used in formal or technical contexts, such as agriculture or butchery. It can also be used in more general contexts to refer to young animals in a specific industry or setting. The word fatling is derived from the verb fattling, which means to raise or feed animals for growth or fattening. Fatling is often used interchangeably with other terms, such as youngling or weanling, although it typically refers to animals raised for slaughter. In some contexts, fatling may be used to refer to young animals in general, although this usage is less common. Overall, fatling is a useful term for describing young animals in specific industries or settings.
nounA young animal, especially a sheep or pig, raised for slaughter.
- A young animal, especially a sheep or pig, raised for slaughter.
"The farmer raised a flock of fatlings for market."
"The farmer raised a flock of fatlings for market."
"The butcher sold fatlings to the local restaurants."
The plural form fatlings is used to refer to multiple young animals raised for slaughter.
"The farmer raised a flock of fatlings for market."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of fatling
The word fatling is derived from the verb fattling, which is thought to have originated in the 15th century. Fattling is likely related to the Old English word fættan, meaning to feed or nourish. The term fatling has been used in English since the 17th century, initially in formal or technical contexts. Over time, the word has become more widely used, although it remains a specialized term in many industries.
How fatling is actually used
Fatling is typically used in formal or technical contexts, such as agriculture or butchery. It can also be used in more general contexts to refer to young animals in a specific industry or setting.