# castration

/ˌkæsˈtɹeɪʃən/ (US) · /kɑːstɹˈeɪʃən/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/castration
Updated: 2026-05-26

## Definition

the medical process of removing the testicles in a male animal or person. It is often done to stop an animal from reproducing or to treat certain health conditions.

For teachers: the surgical removal of the testes in a male organism. Often performed for medical, behavioral, or population control purposes in both humans and animals.

## Examples

- The vet performed a castration on the dog to prevent him from reproducing.
- In some medical cases, castration is used as a treatment for certain types of cancer that are sensitive to male hormones.
- Historically, castration was a common practice in various cultures to produce male singers with a high-pitched voice, though modern medicine has largely replaced this with hormone therapy.

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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.