Definition

Noun: The branch of agriculture concerned with the breeding, raising, and care of domesticated farm animals for the purpose of producing food, fiber, labor, or other products.

Usage

"Animal husbandry" is a formal, technical term used in agricultural, scientific, and economic contexts. It refers to the systematic practice and science of managing livestock. It is typically used as an uncountable noun.

Examples

• Modern animal husbandry emphasizes both productivity and animal welfare.
• She studied animal husbandry at the agricultural college to learn about sustainable cattle farming.
• Good animal husbandry practices are essential for preventing disease outbreaks on farms.

Advanced Usage

• "Principles of animal husbandry": Refers to the fundamental guidelines and ethical standards for raising animals.
  • The new law requires all farmers to follow the core principles of animal husbandry.
• "Intensive/Extensive animal husbandry": Describes the scale and method of farming; intensive involves high input and confinement, while extensive involves animals roaming over larger areas.
  • The debate focused on the environmental impact of intensive animal husbandry.

Variants and Related Words

• Husbandry (n): The careful management of resources. "Animal husbandry" is its most common specific application.
• Animal science (n): The academic discipline that underpins animal husbandry, focusing on the biology and physiology of farm animals.
• Livestock farming (n): A closely related term, often used more generally for the business or activity of raising farm animals.

Synonyms

• Livestock management
• Stock raising
• Animal farming

Related Phrases

• "Sustainable husbandry": Practices designed to be environmentally sound and viable long-term.
  • The conference promoted techniques for sustainable husbandry.
• "Husbandry skills": The practical abilities required to care for animals properly.
  • Effective veterinarians need strong clinical knowledge and basic husbandry skills.

Noun

1. breeding and caring for farm animals