Main Entry:

cat·tle

Pronunciation:

\ˈka-t^əl\

Function:

noun plural

Etymology:

Middle English catel, from Anglo-French katil, chatel personal property, from Medieval Latin capitale, from Latin, neuter of capitalis of the head — more at capital

Date:

14th century

1: domesticated quadrupeds held as property or raised for use ; specifically : bovine animals on a farm or ranch2: human beings especially en masse