teat
TEET
/tiːt/
The nipple on the breast or udder of a female mammal, through which milk is drawn.
In dairy farming, it refers specifically to the individual projections on a cow's udder (usually four) from which milk is extracted.
The story behind the word. From Old French tete (of Germanic origin), which traces back to Proto-Germanic titt- (meaning 'breast' or 'nipple'). It is a very old, direct anatomical term that has remained virtually unchanged in meaning for centuries.
Word relationships
- nipple: Nipple is the general term for primates and humans, whereas teat is the standard term for livestock and other mammals.
Commonly confused with
- udder: The udder is the entire bag-like mammary organ, while the teat is the specific nipple-like projection from which milk flows.
Word family
- teats (noun): Plural form of teat.
Collocations
- teat dip
- teat cup
- teat disinfection
- injured teat
Example sentences
- "Ensure that each teat is clean and dry before attaching the inflation cups of the milking machine." Instructions for operating a milking machine.
Memory hook
Teat sounds like 'treat'—for a newborn calf, the teat is where they get their milk treat. Teat is the tap for milk.
When not to use
Avoid using in highly formal human medical contexts where 'nipple' is preferred, unless referring to veterinary or agricultural settings.
Fun facts
- A standard dairy cow has four teats, but occasionally 'supernumerary' (extra) teats are born, which are usually removed for ease of milking.
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