verb
spay
SPAY/speɪ/
To prevent a female animal from reproducing by removing or disabling reproductive organs.
The veterinarian spays female cats to prevent them from having kittens.
Etymology
The broad-blade root led to a verb meaning “cut with a sword.” Early English used it both for stabbing a hunted animal and for removing a hunting dog's ovaries.
In context
by spay and neuter you deal with a vet a veterinarian that would um eliminate any reproductive organs
More examples
- We had our dog spayed before adopting another puppy.
- The clinic offers low-cost appointments for spaying cats.
- Ask your veterinarian when to spay your rabbit.
Forms
spay · spays · spayed · spaying
Similar words
- neuter
- Can refer to either sex, though often used for males.
- sterilize
- Broader term covering either sex and surgical or nonsurgical methods.