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What is the Plural of Boar?

Published in English Grammar 2 mins read

The plural of boar is boars.

When referring to more than one of these powerful animals, the standard English plural form is created by simply adding an 's' to the end of the word.

Understanding the Term "Boar"

A boar (pronounced /ˈboɚ/) is a versatile term primarily used to describe a wild pig, also known as a wild hog or wild swine. These animals are characterized by their robust build and, in males, prominent tusks. The word can also refer more specifically to an uncastrated male domestic pig, especially when kept for breeding purposes.

  • Wild Boars: These are feral pigs found in forests and wilderness areas around the world, known for their strength and foraging habits.
  • Domestic Boars: In animal husbandry, a boar is a male pig kept for breeding sows.

Forming the Plural

Most English nouns form their plural by adding '-s' or '-es' to the singular form. "Boar" follows this common and regular pattern.

Singular Form Plural Form Example Sentence
Boar Boars A lone boar was spotted near the river.
Several boars were rooting for truffles in the woods.

Examples in Context

Here are some practical examples demonstrating the use of "boars" in sentences:

  • Wildlife Observation: "During our hike, we were careful to avoid a group of boars that had been reported in the area."
  • Agricultural Context: "The farm maintained several prize-winning boars for their breeding program."
  • Historical Reference: "Ancient hunters often pursued boars for food and their valuable tusks."
  • Figurative Language: "The team's aggressive defense was compared to a charge of wild boars."

For further verification of word usage and definitions, you can consult reputable linguistic resources such as the Merriam-Webster Dictionary.

Common Misconceptions

While some animal names have irregular plural forms (e.g., "deer" remains "deer" in the plural, "sheep" remains "sheep"), "boar" is not one of them. There is no special collective noun that serves as the plural in common usage like "a herd of deer" for the plural. The simple addition of 's' is correct and widely accepted.