ranz des vaches

noun

räⁿ(s)dāvȧsh
: a melody sung by Swiss herdsmen or played on the alpenhorn to call cattle

Word History

Etymology

French dialect (Switzerland), literally, rows of cows; probably intended as translation (influence of German reihen rows) of German dialect (Switzerland) kuhreihen, kuhreigen

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near ranz des vaches

Cite this Entry

“Ranz des vaches.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ranz%20des%20vaches. Accessed 27 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!