Grazing

/ˈɡreɪ.zɪŋ/

Meaning & Definition

noun
The act of animals feeding on grass or other vegetation.
The grazing of sheep on the hillside kept the grass well trimmed.
Land covered with grass and other low plants suitable for grazing animals.
The ranch has large areas of grazing that support a diverse range of wildlife.
The act of eating small amounts of food throughout the day instead of having three large meals.
She prefers grazing on snacks rather than eating full meals.
verb
To feed on growing grass or other vegetation.
The cattle were grazing peacefully in the pasture.
To eat small amounts of food throughout the day.
He enjoys grazing on fruits and nuts instead of having a big lunch.

Etymology

Middle English 'grasen', originally from Old French 'gresser', from 'gres' meaning grass.

Common Phrases and Expressions

grazing rights
Legal rights to allow livestock to feed on land.
grazing fee
A charge for allowing livestock to graze on land.
grazing land
Land that is used for the purpose of feeding livestock.

Related Words

pasture
Land covered with grass and other low plants suitable for grazing animals.
forage
To search widely for food or provisions.
browsing
Feeding on twigs and small branches of trees or shrubs.

Slang Meanings

Casually snacking or eating small amounts.
I'm just grazing at the party, not really having a full meal.
To eat repeatedly in small portions.
She prefers grazing rather than having a full sit-down dinner.