Milker Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈmɪlkər/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A device or person that extracts milk from an animal, typically a cow, sheep, or goat, or a person who does so.

Examples

• The farmer used the milker to extract fresh milk from the cow.
• The dairy farmer relied on the milker to get the milk out of the goat’s udders.
• The milker is necessary for the dairy industry to operate efficiently.
• The cow milkers worked together to ensure a steady supply of fresh milk.
• The farmer’s field hand became a skilled milker with practice.
• This milker uses suction to remove milk from the cow’s udder.

Synonyms

• Milk extractor
• Lactator
• Udder suction device

Antonyms

• Non-milk producer
• Non-dairy producer
• Non-animal milk source

Additional Information

Milk processing involves several steps, including milking, cooling, and separating the milk into its various components. Milkers play a vital role in maintaining the quality of milk, as they provide the necessary care and attention to the animals.

The processes and methods used in milking have evolved over time, with modern technology allowing for more efficient and effective milking procedures. Milkers must stay informed about animal health issues, milk quality standards, and regulatory requirements to ensure compliance.

Etymology

The word “milker” comes from the Old English words “milcian” meaning “to milk” and “er” meaning “doer”. The term has been used since the 14th century to describe a person or device that extracts milk from an animal.

Usage Notes

The word “milker” is typically used in agricultural, dairy, or veterinary contexts. When referring to a person, “milker” is often used in a general sense, while in the context of a device, the term may be more specific.

Cultural References

Milkers have been depicted in literature, art, and film throughout history, often in agricultural or dairy settings. One notable example is the milkmaid from the 18th-century German fairy tale “Hansel and Gretel”.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

Such phrases as “milking the cow” or “the milk of human kindness” are idiomatic expressions that derive from the concept of milking an animal.

Related Words or Phrases

Related words include “milk”, “dairy”, “udder”, “cow”, “goat”, and “sheep”. Phrases like “milk production” or “dairy farming” are also closely related.

Collocations

Common collocations with “milker” include “electric milker”, “piping milker”, “bottle-feeding milker”, and “lactation milker”.

Frequency of Use

The word “milker” is relatively uncommon in modern language, although it may be more frequently used in specialized contexts such as agriculture or dairy production.

Common Misspellings

Common misspellings of the word “milker” include “milkier”, “milkur”, and “milkerer”.