estrous

adjective

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es·trous | \ ˈe-strəs

Definition of estrous

1 : of, relating to, or characteristic of estrus

2 : being in heat

Example Sentences Phrases Containing estrous Learn More About estrous

Examples of estrous in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web That male was part of a group of four males who were harassing an estrous female, when out of nowhere, her three coalition partners came swooping in to her aid. — David P. Barash, WSJ, 17 May 2022 Mature bucks use a circuit of routes when the pre-rut kicks in to seek out estrous does. — Gerald Almy, Field & Stream, 1 Dec. 2020 With just a smattering of does coming into estrous, the main whitetail rut is on its last legs. — Scott Bestul, Field & Stream, 20 Oct. 2020 But now, with only a few estrous does left, the sweet scent of one can bring a buck running to you on a string. — Michael Hanback, Outdoor Life, 4 Dec. 2019 The male seen in the video is likely confusing the new mother's hormonal scent with that of a female in estrous. — Sarah Gibbens, National Geographic, 2 May 2017

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'estrous.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.