Science Learning Hub logo
TopicsConceptsCitizen scienceTeacher PLDGlossary
Sign in
Image

Fattening pigs in the mæst year

Men knocking down acorns to feed swine, the Queen Mary Psalter

The term ‘mast’ comes from the ancient English word ‘mæst’ and traditionally means the fruit of beech, oak, chestnut and other forest trees, especially as food for pigs. In mast years, pig herders would fatten their pigs on the glut of acorns and nuts.

Illustration from Luttrell Psalters (c. 1325–1340) copyrighted inside the UK, © British Library.

Glossary

Rights: © British Library Board – Royal 2 B. VII f81v.
Published: 24 May 2019Size: 178.54 KB
Referencing Hub media

Explore related content

Appears inRelated resources
Mast years

Article

Mast years

What is a mast? You might be forgiven for thinking it had more to do with ships than conservation!

Read more
Designated pathogen-free pigs – origins and welfare

Article

Designated pathogen-free pigs – origins and welfare

Living Cell Technologies (LCT) sources pig cells for transplants from designated pathogen-free pigs housed in special facilities and looked after ...

Read more
Dairy farming – key terms

Article

Dairy farming – key terms

This resource provides explanations of the key concepts and terms encountered when exploring some of the science that supports sustainable ...

Read more
Mast years

Article

Mast years

What is a mast? You might be forgiven for thinking it had more to do with ships than conservation!

Read more

See our newsletters here.

NewsEventsAboutContact usPrivacyCopyrightHelp

The Science Learning Hub Pokapū Akoranga Pūtaiao is funded through the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment's Science in Society Initiative.

Science Learning Hub Pokapū Akoranga Pūtaiao © 2007-2025 The University of Waikato Te Whare Wānanga o Waikato