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Definition of oxtail

oxtail

/ˈɑːks.teɪl/
ox · tail
Plural:oxtails
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oxtail Lexical Profile

oxtail Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The skinned tail of cattle, typically cut into cross-sections and slow-cooked as a gelatinous meat in soups, stews, and braised dishes.

Example

"The chef simmered the oxtail with red wine and root vegetables for four hours until the meat was tender."

2

The tail of an ox or other bovine animal.

Example

"Long hairs from the oxtail were traditionally bundled together to make fine artist brushes."

• Rhymes for oxtail

• Nearby Words

oximeter
oxnard
oxpecker
oxtail
oxus
oxy
oxycodone

Word Origin & Etymology

A Middle English compound formed from Old English 'oxa' (ox) and 'tægl' (tail). Although originally referring strictly to the tail of an ox, in modern culinary usage it refers to the tail of any beef cattle.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Oxtail. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/oxtail
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