n 1 a  :  one of the usu. paired bony processes that arise from the head of many ungulates and that are found in some extinct mammals and reptiles : esp  :  one of the permanent paired hollow sheaths of keratin usu. present in both sexes of cattle and their relatives that function chiefly for defense and arise from a bony core anchored to the skull  b  :  the tough fibrous material consisting chiefly of keratin that covers or forms the horns of cattle and related animals, hooves, or other horny parts (as claws or nails)  2  :  CORNU horned adj 
 
 
 
Published under license with Merriam-Webster, Incorporated.  © 1997-2024.