Bovids are a family of mammals that include cattle, goats, sheep, bison and antelopes. These animals are often characterized by their cloven hooves and their four-chambered stomachs, which allows them to digest plants efficiently. While "bovid" is a scientific term commonly used to describe these mammals, there are many other words used to describe them depending on the specific animal. For example, cows are also described as "cattle," while sheep are referred to as "ovine." Bison are known as "American buffalo," and antelopes are often referred to as "gazelles" or "deer." Regardless of the word used, bovids play an important role in agriculture, meat production and the ecosystem.