What does "abattage" mean?

1. (animal slaughter) the killing of animals, especially when done to stop a disease from spreading to other farms. 2. (securing artillery) fixing the wheels of a large gun into the ground so it stays still when fired.

How do you use "abattage"?

Often used in official reports or veterinary contexts regarding public health.

abattage

1 animal slaughter (n.)
C2 Proficiency Technical Formal Medicine

the killing of animals, especially when done to stop a disease from spreading to other farms.

the slaughter of livestock, specifically the systematic culling of animals to prevent the transmission of infectious diseases.

Example

The government ordered the abattage of thousands of birds to stop the flu.

Example

Following the outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease, the ministry mandated an immediate abattage of all susceptible livestock within a ten-mile radius of the infected farm.

Usage

Often used in official reports or veterinary contexts regarding public health.
- slaughter
- culling
2 securing artillery (n.)
C2 Proficiency Archaic Technical Military

fixing the wheels of a large gun into the ground so it stays still when fired.

the process of anchoring or securing the wheels of an artillery piece to ensure stability during discharge.

Example

The soldiers completed the abattage before the enemy reached the valley.

Example

The heavy battery required precise abattage to prevent the carriage from recoiling into the soft mud of the trench line.

Teacher's tip

This sense is largely historical and rarely encountered outside of period military texts.
- anchoring
- securing