How Do You Spell MURRAIN?

Pronunciation: [mˈʌɹe͡ɪn] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "murrain" is peculiar and may seem difficult to pronounce. However, it is quite easy when one utilizes the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) transcription. The word is pronounced /mʌrɪn/. It is a noun that means an infectious disease that affects cattle and other livestock. Its spelling may be strange, but it is a term that farmers and ranchers are familiar with, especially in regions where cattle rearing is a common occupation.

MURRAIN Meaning and Definition

  1. Murrain, as a noun, refers to a contagious or epidemic disease that affects livestock animals, particularly cattle. This term has historical origins and is mainly used in literary or archaic contexts. The term can also be used metaphorically to describe any widespread affliction or calamity that affects a particular group or population.

    The word "murrain" is derived from the Middle English word "morrene," meaning "deadly infection" or "plague." It shares its etymology with the Latin term "morbus," meaning "disease."

    In the context of livestock farming, murrain commonly refers to highly infectious diseases that can spread rapidly among herds, causing severe consequences such as mass deaths or economic losses. Examples of diseases that were historically referred to as murrain include foot-and-mouth disease, rinderpest, and anthrax.

    Metaphorically, murrain can describe the devastating impact of a widespread calamity or a disastrous event that affects a particular group or society. It signifies both the rapid spread and the severe consequences of the affliction. It is often used to evoke a sense of tragedy, suffering, or hardship that transcends the physical realm and encompasses the emotional, social, or economic aspects of the affected population.

    Overall, murrain encompasses both the literal and figurative aspects of a widespread disease or calamity, highlighting the severity and impact it has on animals and humans alike.

  2. An epidemic disease of cattle; epizootic.

    A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

  3. • An infectious and fatal disease among cattle.
    • Infected with murrain: int. used as an imprecation, as, " murrain take thee!".

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for MURRAIN

Etymology of MURRAIN

The word murrain comes from Middle English morin, which was derived from Old French morine. It ultimately traces back to Latin morbus, meaning disease or illness.

Similar spelling words for MURRAIN

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