Gimmer

/ˈɡɪmər/ noun

Definition

A young female sheep, especially one in its second year before having its first lamb.

Etymology

From Middle English and Old Norse 'gimbr,' related to Old English and Germanic roots for 'young.' The term specifically applies to sheep farming terminology.

Kelly Says

Farmers have incredibly specific vocabulary for animals at different life stages—a gimmer is that exact moment when a sheep becomes a 'young woman' but hasn't quite become a mother yet!

Ethical Language Guidance

Gender History

Scots/Northern English term for a young female sheep, from 'gim' (female). Applied to young women in vernacular with diminishing/infantilizing connotations, conflating females with animals.

Inclusive Usage

Use contextually for livestock; avoid applying to women. When discussing historical usage, acknowledge the dehumanizing parallel.

Inclusive Alternatives

["young woman","girl","ewe lamb"]

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