Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/baɪn/

Definitions

1. A flexible, slender stem of a climbing plant, often twisted or coiled, that supports the plant as it grows.
2. The twining stem or vine of certain plants, especially of the hop or other climbing species.

Usage Examples

• "The bine of the climbing plant wrapped around the trellis, reaching toward the sun."
• "Farmers use bines from the hop plant to create their traditional brewing ingredients."

Etymology

The word "bine" originates from Middle English "byn," meaning a vine or climbing plant, which comes from the Old French word "bine" (from Latin "vīnea," meaning vine). It is closely related to the word "vine," though "bine" specifically refers to plants that twist or coil as they grow.

Synonyms

• Vine
• Climber
• Stem

Antonyms

• Tree
• Bush
• Shrub

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• US: /baɪn/
• UK: /baɪn/

Historical Usage

The term "bine" has been in use since at least the 14th century, often in reference to climbing plants such as hops, which were essential in beer-making traditions. Historically, bines were used in horticulture to support the growth of various climbing plants, as well as in agriculture to prevent the spread of unwanted weeds by covering fences and structures.

Cultural Nuances

Bines have been an important part of traditional farming and gardening, particularly in the cultivation of hops for brewing. In some cultures, the term "bine" is used to distinguish between plants that climb by coiling their stems (such as hops and bindweed) and those that rely on tendrils (like grapes). In other cultures, the bine is a symbol of strength and flexibility due to its ability to twist and grow under challenging conditions.

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