Breeding
/ˈbriː.dɪŋ/noun
The process of producing offspring, especially in animals or plants.
Did you know?The term 'breeding' is linked to ancient agricultural practices, where rituals were performed to ensure a bountiful harvest and fruitful offspring.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*bhrē-
“to swell, to grow, to increase.”
Old English
Old English
brēdan
“to bring forth, to produce young.”
Middle English
Middle English
breden
“to rear or nurture young.”
15th Century
Middle English
breeding
“the action of producing offspring, particularly in a controlled or selective manner.”
Modern English
English
breeding
“the act or process of producing and nurturing offspring.”