Heifer

Definition

A young female cow that has not borne a calf.

Ethical Language Guidance

Gender History

Heifer is etymologically neutral (Old English for young female cattle). However, 'heifer' has been used historically as a dehumanizing slur for women, reducing them to animal status in misogynistic language.

Inclusive Usage

Use descriptively for bovine animals only. In human contexts, avoid entirely due to dehumanizing history.

Inclusive Alternatives

["young woman","girl","person"]

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