animals fighting; person quarreling
Meanings
2 senses · 5 examplesverb
(of domestic animals) to fight with one's own kind
informalOriginally used for livestock such as horses, cattle, or sheep that are aggressive toward their herd mates. The animal cannot coexist peacefully with its group.
This horse likes to fight with its kind, so it can't be kept with other horses.
That belligerent sheep was driven out of the flock.
verb
to constantly dispute with people around one; to be quarrelsome and uncooperative
informalMetaphorical extension of the animal behavior to humans. Describes someone who is difficult to get along with, often picks fights with colleagues or neighbors, and cannot cooperate with others. Carries a negative connotation.
He is always quarreling with people at work, so nobody likes him.
This person is quarrelsome and difficult to cooperate with.
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Don't always be picking fights; you need to learn to get along with people.