The word "gelded" refers to a horse or other animal that has been castrated. The spelling of this word follows the rule of "ed" endings in English past participles. The "geld" root comes from Old English "gelda," meaning "payment." The IPA phonetic transcription for "gelded" is /ˈɡɛldɪd/. The stressed syllable is the first one, followed by the vowel sound in "bed." The final "ed" is pronounced as a separate syllable, with the consonant sound in "did."
Gelded is an adjective that refers to the state of an animal, typically a male, that has been castrated or had its testicles removed for the purpose of sterilization. The term is particularly applied to horses, although it can be used for other animals such as bulls or rams. The process of gelding is typically performed for various reasons, including improving behavior, preventing reproduction, or enhancing performance in certain activities.
When a horse is gelded, the testicles are surgically removed, which significantly reduces the level of testosterone in its body. As a result, the gelded horse usually becomes more docile and easier to handle, making it a popular choice for recreational purposes and often more suitable for riders such as children or beginners.
Gelded animals often display physical characteristics that differ from their intact counterparts. In the case of horses, geldings may have a heavier build or a more rounded shape due to the absence of hormonal influences.
The term "gelded" can also be used metaphorically, outside the context of castration, to describe the feeling of emasculation or powerlessness in individuals or situations. It underscores a loss or removal of potential, influence, or strength.
Castrated.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "gelded" comes from the Old English term "gieldan" or "gieldan", which means "to castrate". This Old English word is cognate with Old High German "geltan" and Old Norse "gelda". The Old English term is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "galdaną", which also translates to "to castrate". The root of this term, "gald", is believed to relate to "payment" or "tribute", suggesting that castration might have been an accepted form of compensation or punishment in ancient societies. Over time, the word "gelded" has become the past participle form of "geld", commonly used to describe animals, especially horses, that have been castrated.