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Definition of calf

calf

/kæf/
calf
Plural:calves
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calf Lexical Profile

calf Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The young of a domestic cow, or the young of certain other large mammals such as elephants, whales, giraffes, and seals.

Example

"The dairy farmer monitored the newborn calf carefully to ensure it began nursing properly."

2

The fleshy, muscular back part of the human leg situated between the knee and the ankle.

Example

"After running uphill for several miles, she felt a sharp cramp in her right calf."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for calf

• Rhymes for calf

• Nearby Words

caledon
calendar
calendula
calf
calgary
cali
calibrachoa

Word Origin & Etymology

The word functions as two distinct homonyms with separate origins. For the young animal, it derives from Old English 'cealf' of Germanic origin. For the back of the leg, it comes from Old Norse 'kálfi', possibly related to Celtic roots.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Calf. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 16, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/calf
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