Bovine is a collective term for a group of animals.

The term “bovine” is derived from the Latin word “bos,” meaning “ox,” which can be traced back to the Indo-European root *gwous, denoting an ox.

The biological subfamily Bovinae encompasses a diverse array of animals, including domestic cattle, bison, African buffalo, water buffalo, yak, and various species of antelopes with four-horned or spiral-horned characteristics.

Common features among bovids include cloven hooves and the presence of true horns, typically found in at least one sex of a species.

Bovids are widely consumed as food in many countries, with their milk and meat being utilized by humans. Cattle, in particular, are raised as livestock across the globe, except in certain regions of India and Nepal where they hold sacred status among most Hindus. These animals are employed as draft animals and can also serve as mounts for riding purposes. Additionally, smaller breeds of domestic bovids, like the Miniature Zebu, are kept as pets.

Examples of bovids include the African buffalo, yak, and various species of antelope.