Definition
  1. To select and remove (a group of animals or plants) from a larger population.

    synonyms:selectchoose
  2. To reduce the size of a population by selective slaughter.

    synonyms:harvestthin out
Origin & Use

The word 'cull' comes from the late Middle English 'cullen', which is derived from the Latin 'colligere', meaning 'to gather together'.


This word is often used in agricultural, ecological, and literary contexts.


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While not a daily conversation word, it is commonly used in discussions about wildlife management and agriculture.

Examples

The farmer decided to cull the herd to ensure the health of the remaining animals.

In the novel, the protagonist had to cull through old letters to find the truth.

Conservationists may cull certain species to maintain ecological balance in the area.

More Info

The word 'cull' carries with it a sense of selection and removal, often with a focus on improving the overall quality of a group. Originating from the Latin word 'colligere', meaning to gather, it has evolved to encompass both agricultural practices and metaphorical uses in literature. You might encounter it when discussing wildlife management or even when sifting through old documents. Its dual meanings highlight the balance between preserving and thinning out, making it a fascinating term in both ecological and literary discussions.

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