Steer

Definition

Steer can refer to the action of guiding the direction in which something, like a vehicle, is moving. It can also refer to a young male bovine animal, particularly one that's been castrated.

Parts of Speech

• Verb
• Noun

Pronunciation

• ‍American English
  • ‍IPA Pronunciation: /stɪr/‍
  • Respelling: STEER (with "STEER" rhyming with "beer" and "peer")

• British English
  • ‍IPA Pronunciation: /stɪə/‍
  • Respelling: STEER (similar to American English, with "STEER" rhyming with "beer" and "peer")

In both dialects, "steer" is pronounced with a clear "ee" sound. The main difference is in the rhoticity; American English pronunciation includes a pronounced "r" sound at the end, while British English may not articulate the "r" as strongly unless followed by a vowel in connected speech.

Derivatives

• Steerage
• Steerer
• Steering

Synonyms

• Verb:
  • Guide
  • Direct

• Noun:
  • Yearling
  • Cattle

Antonyms

• Follow
• Abandon
• Misguide

Usage

The verb "steer" is often used in the context of driving or sailing, indicating the action of guiding a vehicle or vessel in a particular direction. The noun "steer" is commonly used in agricultural or rural settings to describe a specific type of cattle.

Related Terms

• Steering wheel
• Steersman
• Steerling

Detailed Definition

Verb

• To Guide: To guide the course of (something in motion) by a rudder, helm, wheel, etc.
• Example: He steered the car through the winding road.

• To Direct the Course: To direct the course of; guide.
• Example: She steered the discussion back to the main topic.‍

Noun

• Young Male Bovine: A male bovine animal, especially a domesticated ox, castrated and trained for use in draft.
• Example: The farmer bought a steer to replace the old bull.