Pronunciation: [fˈiːdjɑːd] (IPA) 
Feedyard is a compound noun, consisting of the words "feed" and "yard". It is commonly used in the farming industry to refer to a large enclosure where cattle are fed a high-energy diet for several weeks or months prior to slaughter. The phonetic transcription for feedyard is fiːdˌjɑːd, with the stress on the first syllable "feed". The "y" in "yard" is pronounced as a vowel and is represented by the IPA symbol ɑ.
A feedyard, also known as a feedlot, is a specialized facility used in the livestock industry for the purpose of feeding and fattening cattle. It is a managed, confined area where large numbers of cattle are kept and provided with a balanced diet to enhance their growth and meat production.
In a feedyard, cattle are placed in pens or enclosures, typically made of steel or wooden fences, which allow them to move around freely. These pens are designed to accommodate a specific number of animals, depending on their size and weight. The facility is equipped with feeding troughs or bunks where the cattle are fed a formulated diet that usually contains a combination of grains, forages, and protein supplements. The diet is carefully calculated and adjusted to meet the nutritional needs of the animals, promoting efficient weight gain and muscle development.
Apart from regular feeding, feedyards provide a controlled environment that ensures access to clean water, shelter, and veterinary care. This helps maintain the health and well-being of the cattle, minimizing the risk of diseases and ensuring optimal growth. Additionally, feedyards have drainage systems to handle and manage manure, preventing environmental contamination and odor issues.
Feedyards play a crucial role in the livestock industry by maximizing the efficiency of beef production. They allow producers to raise and finish cattle in a concentrated area, optimizing resources and reducing the time it takes for animals to reach market weight. The meat produced from feedyard operations is generally known as grain-fed or feedlot beef, known for its tenderness and marbling.
The word "feedyard" is composed of two components: "feed" and "yard".
The term "feed" originated from the Old English word "fēdan", which means "to nourish or give food to". It can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "fōdijaną". The word "feed" has remained relatively unchanged in meaning throughout its history, referring to the act of providing food to animals.
"Yard" is derived from the Old English word "geard", which initially referred to an enclosed space or an enclosure. It can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "gardaz". Over time, the meaning of "yard" expanded to include various types of enclosed areas, such as pastures or enclosed land for animals.
