spay

Definition

To destroy or remove the ovaries or uterus (of a female animal) to prevent pregnancy.

Etymology

From Middle English spayen, spaien, from the Anglo-Norman espeier, equivalent to the Old French espeer (“to cut with a sword”), from espee (“sword”), whence the Modern French épée.

Example Sentences

• "We’re having our cat spayed as we don’t want her having kittens."
• "With their eye on non-island countries, namely America, the authors of Cat Wars argue for a combination of spay/neuter programs, enclosed sanctuaries, and euthanasia."