Oxen are a type of cattle. They are usually used as beasts of burden. It carries heavy loads, drives carts and provides milk and meat. Thus they are working cattle and refer to both male and female. Therefore they are domesticated bovine animals and they are referred by this name regardless of their age or gender. It is an old word and finds mention even in the bible. Oxen are supposed to be sturdy and dependable animals. A pair of oxen is generally used to plough fields too. It is an animal mentioned in the Chinese astrology and is supposed to be stubborn and headstrong with strong views.
