Pronunciation: [bˈiːvz] (IPA) 
The uncommon word "beeves" refers to multiple cows or bulls. Its spelling can be confusing, as the plural of "beef" is typically simply "beefs". However, "beeves" is an old-fashioned plural form of the word that has been retained in certain contexts such as literature or animal husbandry. The IPA phonetic transcription of "beeves" is /ˈbiːvz/, with the stress on the first syllable and a voiced final sound represented by the letter "v".
Beeves (noun) is the plural form of "beef," primarily used in archaic or poetic contexts to refer to multiple or collective units of cattle or bovine animals. It is derived from the Old English word "bēf," which meant an animal or animals used for food or meat. Today, "beeves" is rarely used in contemporary language but persists in certain traditional or stylized expressions.
In its modern context, "beeves" is often associated with traditional agricultural practices, where livestock or herds of cattle were raised for their meat. The term is occasionally encountered in literature, historical accounts, or in poetic verses that aim to evoke a rustic or archaic ambiance.
The use of "beeves" may also indicate an appreciation for the history and origins of meat consumption, acknowledging the long-standing relationship between humans and cattle for sustenance and resources. Its usage can be seen as an homage to a simpler time when agriculture was an essential element of human survival.
Overall, "beeves" serves as a linguistic reminder of the connection between language, culture, and food, while also reflecting the evolution of expressions and terminology over time.
• Consisting of beef.
• Of beef when the animals are meant.
• Black cattle.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "beeves" is the plural form of "beef" and refers to multiple cows or cattle. The etymology of "beef" can be traced back to the Old French word "boef", which meant "ox" or "cow". This further derives from the Latin word "bos", meaning "bull" or "ox". Thus, "beeves" came into English from the Old French plural form "buefs", which transformed into "beeves" over time.
