# ranching

/ˈɹæntʃɪŋ/ (US) · /ɹˈɑːntʃɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/ranching
Updated: 2026-05-30

## Definition

the business or activity of raising large numbers of animals, like cattle or horses, on a farm. It usually happens on very large pieces of land.

For teachers: the practice or industry of raising livestock, particularly cattle, on large tracts of land. Often associated with the management of extensive grazing areas and the production of beef.

## Examples

- Ranching is a major part of the local economy.
- After graduating from college, he moved to the countryside to start a small ranching business.
- The expansion of railroads in the late nineteenth century transformed ranching from a subsistence activity into a highly profitable commercial enterprise.

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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.