Desmoche

Desmoche, in its primary usage, refers to the act of removing horns from livestock, particularly cattle. This process, also known as dehorning, is typically performed to reduce the risk of injury to other animals, handlers, and the animals themselves. The practice is common in the agricultural industry.

Desmoche can also, in a more colloquial context, refer to the removal of branches or limbs from trees, a process akin to pruning or lopping. This usage is less frequent than its application to livestock.

The term's etymology appears to be rooted in languages where "des" signifies removal and a related root describes horns or protuberances.