Bell cow – Definition & Meaning

The term “bell cow” is often used in various contexts, but what does it really mean? This article aims to provide a comprehensive definition and explanation of the term “bell cow.”

Definitions

A bell cow is a lead cow in a herd or group of cows. It is usually the oldest, strongest, and most experienced cow in the group. The bell cow leads the herd to grazing areas, water sources, and back to the barn or corral. The term “bell” comes from the fact that the cow may wear a bell around its neck to make it easier for the farmer or herder to locate the herd.

In a broader sense, the term “bell cow” can also refer to a person or thing that is a leader or a trendsetter in a particular field or industry.

Origin

The origin of the term “bell cow” can be traced back to the practice of putting a bell around the neck of the lead cow in a herd. This allowed the farmer or herder to keep track of the herd’s location and movements. The term “cow” comes from the Old English word “cū,” which means “cow” or “bull.”

Meaning in different dictionaries

According to the Oxford English Dictionary, a bell cow is “a cow that leads the herd, often wearing a bell.” Merriam-Webster defines it as “a cow that leads the herd and has a bell attached to its neck.” The Cambridge Dictionary describes it as “the cow in a group that leads the others, often wearing a bell.”

Associations

The term “bell cow” is often associated with farming, ranching, and agriculture. It is also used in business and leadership contexts to refer to a person or thing that is a leader or a trendsetter.

Synonyms

Synonyms for bell cow include leader, trendsetter, pacesetter, front-runner, trailblazer, and vanguard.

Antonyms

Antonyms for bell cow include follower, laggard, and straggler.

The same root words

The root words of “bell cow” are “bell” and “cow.” “Bell” comes from the Old English word “belle,” which means “bell.” “Cow” comes from the Old English word “cū,” which means “cow” or “bull.”

Example Sentences

1. The bell cow led the herd to the grazing area.
2. She is the bell cow of the fashion industry.
3. The tech company is the bell cow of the industry, setting the standard for innovation.
4. He followed the bell cow to the watering hole.
5. The bell cow of the team led them to victory.