Pronunciation: [kˈɑːvz] (IPA) 
The word "calves" is spelled with a "v" and not a "f" even though it is pronounced similarly to the singular form "calf". This is because the "f" sound in "calf" changes to a "v" sound in the plural form. In IPA phonetic transcription, "calf" is /kæf/ and "calves" is /kælvz/. It is important to pay attention to spelling and pronunciation when writing in English, as mistakes can often change the meaning of a sentence.
Calves is the plural form of the noun "calf." A calf refers to the young of certain animals, particularly cattle or large mammals. It specifically pertains to the young of the bovine species, such as cows or bulls.
In cattle farming and agriculture, calves are offspring born to cows, typically after a gestation period of about nine months. They are born relatively small and fragile, requiring care and nourishment from their mother for a certain period of time. Calves are usually left to nurse on their mother's milk, which contains essential nutrients for healthy growth and development. As they mature, calves gradually transition from consuming only milk to solid food, gradually adapting to a varied diet.
Calves are typically characterized by their relatively short legs, rounded bodies, and innocent features. They possess a playful nature and boundless energy, often frolicking or leaping about during their younger days. As calves grow into adulthood, they eventually develop into mature cattle, gaining strength and stature.
Outside of the context of cattle farming, "calves" may also refer to the muscles in the back of the lower leg. These muscles, particularly the gastrocnemius and soleus muscles, are responsible for movements such as walking, running, and jumping. Regular exercise and strength training can help to strengthen and develop these muscles for improved physical performance.
The young of the cow kind; a stupid or cowardly person.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "calves" can be traced back to the Old English word "calfas", which originates from the Proto-Germanic "kalbaz". This Proto-Germanic word also influenced the Old Norse word "kalfi" and the Old High German word "kalba". The ultimate root of the word can be traced back to the Proto-Indo-European root "gelbh" or "gelbhos", meaning "calf of the leg" or "polished surface". Over time, the word "calves" evolved in Middle English from "calfas" to the plural form "calves" used today.
