Pronunciation: [ɡˈɛldz] (IPA) 
The word "gelds" is a variant spelling of the verb "geld," which means to castrate a male animal. It is pronounced as /ɡɛldz/ with a hard "g" sound at the beginning, followed by the schwa vowel sound, "e," the "l" consonant, and finally the "z" sound at the end. The spelling of "gelds" makes use of the English language convention of adding the letter "s" at the end of a verb to indicate third-person singular present tense.
"Gelds" is the present tense, third-person singular form of the verb "geld." The term "geld" refers to a specific action or process, primarily associated with animals, particularly livestock.
To "geld" means to castrate an animal, usually a male domestic animal such as a horse, bull, or pig, by surgically removing the testicles. This procedure is carried out to sterilize the animal, rendering it incapable of reproduction and often leading to behavioral changes related to reduced aggression and territorial behavior. Castration can also be performed for medical reasons or to modify physical or behavioral traits in certain species, such as controlling hormone-related disorders or enhancing desired characteristics, like meat quality or temperamental traits.
Practiced for centuries, gelding is commonly performed by experienced veterinarians or trained individuals who employ sterile techniques to ensure the animal's safety and minimize potential complications or infections. Various methods and tools, such as surgical, chemical, or banding techniques, can be employed depending on the species, age, and intended outcome of the procedure.
The verb "geld" is rooted in Old English and has been in usage for a long time, particularly within the agricultural context. It represents an essential aspect of animal husbandry, aiming to control reproduction, behavior, and manage livestock for specific purposes.
The word "gelds" is the plural form of the noun "geld", which originated from the Old English word "gield". The Old English term "gield" referred to a payment, tribute, or tax. It is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "*geldą", which also meant payment or tribute. This Proto-Germanic root influenced various Germanic languages, such as Old High German "gelt" and Old Norse "gjald", both meaning payment or money. Over time, the noun "geld" in English came to specifically refer to the practice of castrating male animals, particularly horses.
