What does spayed mean?
Spayed describes a female animal that has undergone sterilization by surgical removal of the ovaries and usually the uterus. The procedure prevents the animal from reproducing and is commonly discussed in connection with cats and dogs, especially animals cared for by animal shelters and veterinary clinics. In everyday speech, spayed is sometimes used more loosely in place of neutered, but it has a more specific meaning: neutered can describe an animal of either sex, while spayed refers specifically to a female. The adjective is frequently seen in established combinations such as spayed cat, spayed dog, and already spayed. It is a practical term in veterinary medicine and responsible pet ownership, where preventing unwanted litters is an important concern.
Having undergone the removal of the ovaries, and usually the uterus, to prevent reproduction.
"The spayed dog recovered well after the operation."
Used especially of female animals, though in informal contexts it may occasionally be used more broadly for a sterilized animal.
To sterilize a female animal by surgically removing the ovaries and usually the uterus.
"The clinic will spay the cat when she is old enough."
This is the past tense and past participle of spay.
A spayed animal has been surgically prevented from reproducing; unlike the everyday meaning of sterilized, the word points specifically to the removal of the female reproductive organs.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does spayed come from?
Spayed is formed from the verb spay, meaning to remove the ovaries, and usually the uterus, from a female animal. The verb dates from Middle English, although its more remote origin is uncertain. The modern adjective became established through its frequent use in veterinary and animal-care contexts.
Related word forms
How spayed is actually used
Usually used of female animals, particularly cats and dogs. In general conversation, neutered may be used as a less specific alternative, although it can also refer to the equivalent surgical procedure performed on males.
Easily confused with spayed
Neutered means sterilized and may refer to animals of either sex, whereas spayed specifically refers to a female animal.