Hoe

Part of Speech

Noun, Verb

Pronunciation

IPA: /hoʊ/

Definitions

• (Noun) A gardening tool with a flat blade, used for cultivating soil and removing weeds.
• (Verb) To dig, cultivate, or remove weeds using a hoe.

Usage Examples

• The farmer used a hoe to clear weeds from the field.
• She spent the morning hoeing the vegetable garden.
• A sturdy hoe is essential for maintaining a small farm.

Etymology

From Old English hō, derived from Middle Dutch houe or Old French houe, ultimately from Latin hapula.

Synonyms

Mattock, cultivator, spade (for gardening); till, cultivate (for verb form).

Antonyms

Concrete (for tool), neglect (for verb form).

Translations

More languages omitted for brevity.

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The pronunciation remains largely consistent in English, though some dialects may emphasize a longer "o" sound.

Historical Usage

Hoes have been used since ancient times for agricultural purposes, appearing in early Mesopotamian and Egyptian civilizations.

Cultural Nuances

In some regions, a hoe symbolizes agricultural labor and traditional farming practices.

More Information

Modern hoes come in various designs, including draw hoes, scuffle hoes, and collinear hoes, each suited for different farming needs.