Why is meat called something other than the animal you are eating ie beef venison mutton and not cow deer sheep?

You're right to notice that we don't always call meat by the same name as the animal it comes from. There are a few historical and cultural reasons for this:

* Historical Evolution of Language: Many of the terms we use for meat have evolved over centuries. "Beef" comes from the Old French "boeuf," which itself originated from the Latin "bovis," meaning "ox." While "cow" is more common in modern English, "beef" has stuck as the name for the meat. Similar transformations occurred with other terms like "venison" (from Latin "venatio" meaning "hunting") and "mutton" (from Old French "mouton" meaning "sheep").

* Distinction from the Live Animal: Using separate terms for the animal and the meat helps to avoid confusion. Imagine if you were ordering a "cow" at a restaurant – it wouldn't be clear if you wanted a steak or a living animal! The separate names make it clear you're talking about the food, not the creature itself.

* Culinary Tradition and Specialization: Over time, different types of meat developed specific culinary uses and cultural significance. "Pork" refers to meat from pigs, but also carries culinary traditions and preparation methods distinct from simply calling it "pig." Similarly, "lamb" is often used for younger sheep, highlighting the distinct flavor and tenderness of this type of meat.

* Marketing and Branding: In some cases, terms like "beef" or "venison" have become more marketable than the simpler animal names. These terms can evoke specific qualities and expectations associated with the meat's taste and quality.

Overall, the evolution of language, cultural significance, and culinary traditions have all contributed to the use of different terms for meat and the animals they come from.