Elättävä

Elättävä is a Finnish word that translates to "livestock" or "domestic animal" in English. It refers to animals that are kept by humans for agricultural purposes, such as for meat, milk, eggs, wool, or labor. This category typically includes farm animals like cattle, sheep, pigs, poultry, and horses.

The concept of elättävä is deeply intertwined with the history and culture of Finland, where agriculture has played a significant role. Maintaining livestock has been a fundamental aspect of rural life, providing sustenance and economic opportunities for generations. The term encompasses not only the animals themselves but also the entire system of their care, feeding, and breeding.

In modern Finland, while the scale of traditional farming has evolved, the term elättävä still holds relevance. It reflects the ongoing importance of animal husbandry in certain sectors of the agricultural industry. The welfare and ethical treatment of these animals are also key considerations within contemporary discussions surrounding livestock farming. The word can also be used more broadly to describe any animal that is kept and cared for by humans, even if not strictly for commercial purposes.