The primary meaning of 'breed' in Tamil, particularly when referring to the biological process of reproduction or the raising of animals and plants, is இனப்பெருக்கம் (inapperukkam). This term signifies the production of animals or plants, often through specific methods such as inbreeding or hybridization.
Understanding 'Breed' in Tamil
The English word 'breed' can function both as a verb and a noun, and its meaning in Tamil depends on the context.
As a Verb: To Reproduce or Raise
When 'breed' is used as a verb to describe the act of producing offspring or raising animals for specific purposes, the most appropriate Tamil equivalent is இனப்பெருக்கம் செய் (inapperukkam sei - to do reproduction) or வளர்ப்பது (valarppathu - to raise/cultivate).
- இனப்பெருக்கம் (Inapperukkam): Refers to the act or process of biological reproduction, especially concerning animals or plants. It encapsulates the creation of new life forms.
- Example: "The rabbits breed quickly." – முயல்கள் வேகமாக இனப்பெருக்கம் செய்கின்றன (Muyalkal vegamaga inapperukkam seigindrana).
- வளர்ப்பது (Valarppathu): Implies the act of raising or cultivating, which can include breeding as part of the process of animal husbandry or agriculture.
- Example: "They breed cattle for milk." – அவர்கள் பால் உற்பத்திக்கு கால்நடைகளை வளர்க்கிறார்கள் (Avargal paal urpathikku kaalnadaigalai valarkkirargal).
As a Noun: A Type or Kind
When 'breed' refers to a specific type, variety, or lineage of an animal, the Tamil word commonly used is இனம் (inam).
- இனம் (Inam): Denotes a distinct group of animals or plants within a species that share certain characteristics, often developed through selective breeding.
- Example: "What breed of dog is that?" – அது என்ன இன நாய்? (Adu enna ina naay?).
Key Tamil Equivalents for 'Breed'
To summarize the various shades of meaning for 'breed' in Tamil, here's a table:
| English Term | Tamil Equivalent | Context/Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Breed (verb, process) | இனப்பெருக்கம் (inapperukkam) | The act of biological reproduction or creating offspring. |
| Breed (verb, to raise) | வளர்ப்பது (valarppathu) | To raise or cultivate animals/plants, often for specific traits. |
| Breed (noun, type) | இனம் (inam) | A specific variety, kind, or lineage of animal/plant. |
Practical Usage and Examples
Understanding the context is crucial when using 'breed' in Tamil.
- Biological Context: When discussing the natural reproduction of species, இனப்பெருக்கம் is the most accurate term. For instance, in scientific or agricultural discussions about animal propagation or plant cultivation, this word is central.
- Categorization Context: When classifying animals or plants based on their lineage or characteristics, இனம் is used. This is common in everyday conversations about pets, livestock, or plant varieties.
For more detailed information on English-Tamil meanings, you can refer to online dictionaries such as Shabdkosh.com, which provides insights into terms like "Breeding meaning in Tamil" at https://www.shabdkosh.com/dictionary/english-tamil/Breeding/Breeding-meaning-in-tamil.
