Definition of beef

The origin of the word "beef" dates back to the 14th century. It comes from the Old French word "boef," which means "cow" or "ox." This Old French word is derived from the Latin "bos," also meaning "cow" or "ox." Initially, the term "beef" referred to the meat of cattle, particularly beef as a food source. Over time, the term expanded to include the idea of a serious complaint or grievance, which was likely due to the intense emotions associated with a urban legend claiming that a person's honor could be challenged by an insult to their mother's reputation, resulting in a brutal fight, or "beef."