udder

noun

ud·​der ˈə-dər 

1

: a large pendulous organ consisting of two or more mammary glands enclosed in a common envelope and each provided with a single nipple see cow illustration

2

: mammary gland

Examples of udder in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The virus homes in on the udders of milking cows, and studies have found high concentrations of bird flu virus in raw milk. —Cnn.com Wire Service, The Mercury News, 8 Jan. 2025

Even so, experts say bacteria can still contaminate milk — even when procured from a sparkling-clean udder. —Susanne Rust, Los Angeles Times, 5 Dec. 2024

The virus also homes in on the udders of milking cows, and studies have found high concentrations of bird flu virus in milk that is raw or unpasteurized. —Brenda Goodman, CNN, 19 Dec. 2024

This includes when people are working near udders and raw milk, since that’s where virus traces are highest. —Eduardo Cuevas, USA TODAY, 8 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Old English ūder; akin to Old High German ūtar udder, Latin uber, Greek outhar, Sanskrit ūdhar

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

udder

noun

ud·​der ˈəd-ər 

1

: a large bag-shaped organ (as of a cow) consisting of two or more mammary glands enclosed in a common pouch but with each having a separate nipple

2

: a mammary gland

Medical Definition

udder

noun

ud·​der ˈəd-ər 

: a large pendulous organ in various mammals and especially a female domestic bovine consisting of two or more mammary glands enclosed in a common envelope and each provided with a single nipple