neuter
NOO-ter
/ˈnjuːtər/
To surgically sterilize an animal (commonly referring to males, though usable gender-neutrally).
Can refer specifically to male castrations or act as an umbrella term for sterilizing any animal.
The story behind the word. From Latin 'neuter' (neither of two), derived from 'ne-' (not) and 'uter' (either). In grammar and biology, it represents a neutral state without active reproductive polarity.
Word relationships
- castrate: 'Castrate' specifically means removing male reproductive organs.
- sterilize: 'Sterilize' is the general scientific umbrella term for rendering any organism infertile.
- breed: 'Breed' means to mate animals to produce offspring.
Commonly confused with
- spay: 'Spay' applies specifically to female animals, while 'neuter' usually applies to males or both genders generally.
Word family
- neutered (adjective): Sterilized.
- neutering (noun): The procedure of surgical sterilization.
Collocations
- neuter a cat
- spay and neuter
- neuter clinic
Example sentences
- "It is standard shelter policy to neuter all male dogs before releasing them for adoption." Veterinary clinical protocol
Memory hook
NEUTER makes gender NEUTRAL regarding reproduction. Surgically render infertile.
When not to use
When gender specificity is important for females, 'spay' is preferred.
Fun facts
- Neutering pets drastically reduces roaming behaviors, territorial marking, and risk of reproductive cancers.
Explore more words
spay, excise, veterinarian, sterility, incapacitate, procreate
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