What is "horn"?

Horn refers to a hard, pointed, and often curved growth that extends from the head of certain animals, such as cattle, goats, and rhinoceroses. It is composed of a tough protein called keratin and serves various purposes depending on the species. Horns can be used for defense against predators, as a symbol of dominance and territoriality, for ritualistic or decorative purposes, or even as a sound-producing instrument. Unlike antlers, which are shed and regrown annually, horns are usually permanent structures that continue to grow throughout the animal's life. They are an iconic feature of many species and play a significant role in their biology and behavior.