Castrate
/ˈkæst.reɪt/noun
To remove the testicles of a male animal or human.
Did you know?In ancient Rome, castration was often used as a means to create eunuchs, who were believed to possess unique qualities that made them ideal for certain roles, especially in royal courts.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*kas-
“to cut”
Latin
Latin
castrare
“to cut off, to castrate”
Old French
Old French
castrer
“to castrate, to remove the testicles”
Middle English
Middle English
castrate
“to remove the male reproductive organs”
Modern English
English
castrate
“to surgically remove the testicles or render a male impotent”