# bovine

/ˈboʊˌvaɪn/ (US) · /bˈəʊvaɪn/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/bovine
Updated: 2026-05-11

## Definition

relating to cows or oxen. It can also describe a person who seems slow, calm, and perhaps a bit dull.

For teachers: relating to or affecting cattle; by extension, describes a person who is slow-moving, placid, or dull-witted.

## Examples

- The scientist studied bovine diseases on the farm.
- The farmer implemented new safety measures to prevent the spread of bovine tuberculosis among his herd.
- The protagonist was described as having a bovine expression, suggesting a lack of intellectual curiosity and a slow, methodical approach to the crisis unfolding around him.

## Usage notes

- Typically used as an attributive adjective before a noun; when applied to humans, it often carries a mildly derogatory nuance.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.