The word "neutered" is spelled as /ˈnjuːtəd/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The first sound in this word is /n/ which is followed by the vowel sound /uː/. The next sound is /t/ and then we hear the vowel sound /ə/ which is common in English. Finally the word ends with the sound /d/. This word is commonly used to refer to the surgical process of removing the reproductive organs of an animal, typically a male cat or dog, in order to prevent them from producing offspring.
Neutered is an adjective that refers to the action of rendering an animal, specifically mammals, infertile or incapable of reproduction through surgical removal or destruction of the reproductive organs. This term is most commonly used to describe the sterilization of male animals, which involves removing or blocking the vas deferens, rendering them unable to produce offspring. In certain instances, it may also be used to describe the sterilization process for female animals, known as spaying, where the ovaries and uterus are surgically removed.
Neutering is a common practice carried out to control pet populations, prevent unwanted pregnancies, and eliminate reproductive behaviors such as spraying, marking territory, and aggression related to mating instincts. Beyond preventing reproduction, neutering can also have various health benefits, including reducing the risk of certain cancers and infections in animals. The procedure is typically performed by licensed veterinarians under general anesthesia, ensuring the animal's safety and comfort throughout the process.
In a broader sense, neutered can also be used metaphorically to describe objects or concepts that have been deprived of their essential or natural qualities, characteristics, or effectiveness. This usage suggests a state of being altered, modified, or tamed, bringing about a diminished or neutered version of the original entity.
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The word "neutered" is derived from the Latin word "neuter", which means "neither" or "of neither sex". It is formed by combining the prefix "ne-" (meaning "not" or "without") with the adjectival suffix "-uter". In English, the term "neutered" refers specifically to the surgical removal or alteration of an animal's reproductive organs, rendering it unable to reproduce.