broodmare: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Low FrequencyTechnical / Equestrian
Quick answer
What does “broodmare” mean?
A mare kept for breeding.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A mare kept for breeding.
A female horse, especially one of a specific breeding line, used primarily to produce offspring. The term implies an animal of value selected for its genetic traits.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning. Spelling is identical.
Connotations
Connotes prestige, pedigree, and value within the equestrian world in both varieties. Associated with formal breeding operations.
Frequency
Equally low-frequency in both varieties, confined to specialist contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “broodmare” in a Sentence
The [adjective] broodmare [verb phrase]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “broodmare” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The filly was retired to broodmare.
American English
- The filly was retired to become a broodmare.
adjective
British English
- The broodmare sale attracted international buyers.
American English
- The broodmare sale drew bidders from around the world.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used in the financial context of bloodstock sales and stud farm management.
Academic
Used in equine science, genetics, and veterinary studies.
Everyday
Rarely used outside of conversations about horse breeding.
Technical
Standard term in equestrian breeding, pedigree analysis, and thoroughbred racing.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “broodmare”
- Confusing it with 'mare' in general (not all mares are broodmares).
- Misspelling as 'brood-mare' or 'broadmare'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, only a mare specifically used or intended for breeding is correctly termed a broodmare.
It is specific to horses. For other livestock, terms like 'breeding cow' or 'brood sow' are used.
The direct male equivalent is a 'stallion' used for breeding. A 'broodmare sire' is the term for the father of broodmares.
It is a standard technical term within its field but would sound formal or specialist in everyday conversation.
A mare kept for breeding.
Broodmare: in British English it is pronounced /ˈbruːd.meə(r)/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈbruːd.mer/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None directly associated. Related: "From the distaff side" (referring to maternal lineage in pedigrees).”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: A mare kept to BROOD over (raise) her future offspring.
Conceptual Metaphor
LIVESTOCK AS CAPITAL (a broodmare is an investment asset).
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary purpose of a broodmare?