Definition

1. Verb:
   • To give birth to offspring: The phrase "have young" specifically describes the act of an animal producing its young. It is a biological term focusing on the reproductive event itself.

Usage

• This verb phrase is used almost exclusively for animals, particularly in zoological, biological, or general descriptive contexts. It is a formal and precise alternative to more general terms like "give birth."
• It is typically used in the simple present or past tense to state a fact about an animal's reproductive cycle or a specific birthing event.

Examples

• Verb:
  • Most mammals have young in the spring when food is abundant.
  • The researchers observed the endangered tigers that had young last season.
  • This species of deer has young only once every two years.

Advanced Usage

• The phrase can be used in passive constructions, though this is less common.
  • Young are had in secluded dens for safety.
• It can be part of a defining relative clause describing an animal's behavior.
  • Animals that have young requiring extensive care often have complex social structures.

Variants and Related Words

• Calve (verb): To give birth to a calf (specifically for cows, whales, elephants, and other large mammals).
  • The whales calve in these warm waters.
• Whelp (verb): To give birth to puppies or young of a dog or similar animal (e.g., fox, wolf).
  • The dog whelped a litter of six.
• Farrow (verb): To give birth to piglets.
  • The sow will farrow next week.
• Foal (verb): To give birth to a foal (horse).
  • The mare foaled a healthy colt.
• Lamb (verb): To give birth to lambs (sheep).
  • The ewe is expected to lamb tonight.

Synonyms

• Give birth: A more general and common term applicable to both animals and humans.
• Bear young: A very close synonym, often used interchangeably in formal writing.
• Produce offspring: A more technical or scientific synonym.

Related Phrases

• To be with young: A phrase meaning to be pregnant (used for animals).
  • The zoo confirmed the panda is with young.
• To raise young: To care for offspring after they are born. This is a distinct phase following "having young."
  • After having young, the birds take turns raising them.

Verb

1. birth
   • the whales calve at this time of year