dehorn

[ dee-hawrn ]

verb (used with object)

1. to remove the horns of (cattle).
2. to prevent the formation or growth of horns in (cattle), as by cauterization.
3. Horticulture. to prune (a tree, shrub, etc.) by shortening major branches to an extreme degree.

dehorn

/ diːˈhɔːn /

verb

1. to remove or prevent the growth of the horns of (cattle, sheep, or goats)
2. to cut back (the larger limbs of a tree) drastically

Derived Forms

• deˈhorner, noun

Other Words From

• de·horner noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of dehorn¹

An Americanism dating back to 1885–90; de- + horn

Example Sentences

And Wayne Linklater, a wildlife ecologist at California State University, Sacramento, worries that the shyness of dehorned rhinos might ultimately make managed populations less wild.

From Science Magazine

Michael ’t Sas-Rolfes, a conservation economist at Stellenbosch University in South Africa who was not involved in the research, said that dehorning is not ideal, but is “a somewhat desperate measure.”

From New York Times

Studies have shown that calves recover faster after dehorning when allowed to return to their social group, and chicks benefit from being near their mother hen after experiencing a mild stressor.

From Washington Post

Founded more than 30 years ago, andBeyond Phinda Private Game Reserve is a leader in hands-on guest conservation experiences rooted in scientific need, ranging from rhino dehorning to elephant collaring.

From Seattle Times

On a recent morning, Otto and other Hume employees prepared to dehorn 19 bulls — a brisk, clinical undertaking.

From Salon