What does doe mean Meaning and Definition
What does doe mean
Pronunciation
Part of Speech
Noun/Verb
Definition
A doe is a female deer, typically a mature one. It can also refer to the sound a deer makes, often used to describe a gentle, soothing noise.
Examples
- In the forest, the hunter heard the doe’s gentle bleating.
- At the zoo, the doe and its fawn roamed freely.
Synonyms
- Fawn
- Cow
Antonyms
- Buck
- Bull
Additional Information
The term “doe” is often used in hunting terminology to refer to a female deer, particularly when describing its tracks or behavior. In some cultures, the doe’s gentle sound is considered a symbol of peace and serenity. In poetry and literature, the doe’s call is often used to convey a sense of longing or searching.
Etymology
The word “doe” originates from Old English, derived from the Proto-Germanic word “duhiziz,” meaning “female deer.” It has evolved over time to refer to the sound and behavior of female deer.
Usage Notes
In everyday conversation, the term “doe” is often used to refer to a female deer in a rural or natural setting. In literature and poetry, it can be used to create a sense of atmosphere and mood.
Cultural References
In folklore and mythology, the doe is often depicted as a symbol of innocence and purity. In literature, the doe’s gentle sound is used to convey a sense of longing or searching, such as in the poem “The Doe” by William Wordsworth.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- To buck the system
- To bleat like a goat
Related Words or Phrases
- Fawn
- Cow
- Elk
Collocations
- A doe and its fawn
- The sound of a doe’s bleat
Frequency of Use
The term “doe” is less commonly used than other terms for female deer, such as “fawn” or “cow,” but is still widely recognized and used in certain contexts.
Common Misspellings
- Doer
- Doe’s
- Doee