The spelling of the phrase "a polled cow" can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The word "polled" is pronounced as /pəʊld/, with the "o" sound being an open-mid back rounded vowel, the "l" sound being a lateral consonant, and the "d" sound being a voiced alveolar plosive. Meanwhile, "cow" is pronounced as /kaʊ/, with the "a" sound being a diphthong that starts with an open front unrounded vowel and ends with a near-open back rounded vowel, and the "w" sound being a labial-velar approximant.
A polled cow refers to a bovine animal that possesses the genetic characteristic of being naturally or selectively hornless. The term "polled" originates from the Middle English word "pol," which means a small, round head or a knob. In the context of cattle, being polled means the animal lacks the presence of horns on its head, either through natural selection or through a deliberate breeding process.
Polled cows are the result of a genetic mutation that suppresses the growth of horns. This trait can occur in various breeds, including Angus, Hereford, Holstein, and many others. Unlike horned cows, which develop horns shortly after birth, polled cows lack these protrusions altogether. As a result, polled cows are often considered safer to handle and easier to manage during cattle husbandry practices. The absence of horns minimizes the risks associated with horn-inflicted injuries to both humans and other animals that come into contact with the cattle.
The trait of being polled can be passed down from one generation to another through selective breeding. Breeders may purposefully mate polled cows to produce more polled offspring. Consequently, this trait has become highly desirable in certain cattle populations due to its practical benefits. However, it is important to note that the polled characteristic does not affect the overall health, productivity, or the meat and milk quality of the cow.
A hornless cow.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.