zebu

noun

ze·bu | \ ˈzē-(ˌ)bü,

-(ˌ)byü\

Definition of zebu

: any of various breeds of domestic oxen developed in India that are often considered conspecific with the common ox (Bos taurus) or sometimes as a separate species (B. indicus) and are characterized by a large fleshy hump over the shoulders, a dewlap, pendulous ears, and marked resistance to the injurious effects of heat and insect attack

Examples of zebu in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The book’s acknowledgments make reference to a zebu (cow) skeleton in their living room. — Julie Zickefoose, WSJ, "‘Unnatural Selection’ Review: A Better Bird, Bit by Bit," 22 Nov. 2018 Make the most out of summer’s last hoorah with Byredo’s zebu horn comb, perfect for detangling salty lengths. — Zoe Ruffner, Vogue, "10 Labor Day Weekend Beauty Gifts That Capitalize on Chic," 28 Aug. 2018 Thousands of villagers converge here to trade goods and to buy and sell zebu. — Tom Downey, WSJ, "Exploring Madagascar Is Now Easier Than Ever," 18 July 2018 His successor will need to pull Embrapa into the 21st century, perhaps with the help of a few head of zebu. — The Economist, "Tough times for Embrapa, a jewel of Brazilian innovation," 28 June 2018 Goats are precious, but not as sacred as hump-back zebu cattle. — Peter Ford, The Christian Science Monitor, "Madagascar skirted famine – barely. Now, it's boosting resilience before drought returns.," 25 July 2017 Come to the Old Town Hall to pet and feed friendly rabbits, guinea pigs, chickens, goats, sheep and a miniature zebu. — Courant Community, "Community News For The Enfield Edition," 17 July 2017

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

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Last Updated

14 Jan 2019

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The first known use of zebu was in 1771

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More Definitions for zebu

zebu

noun

ze·bu | \ ˈzē-byü

\

Kids Definition of zebu

: an Asian domestic ox that has a large hump over the shoulders and loose skin with hanging folds

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