Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/hɛmp/

Definitions

1. A tall, annual herb (Cannabis sativa) that is widely cultivated for its fiber, seeds, and oils. It is often used for making textiles, paper, and biodegradable plastics.

2. The fiber of the hemp plant, used in textiles and various other products.

3. A variety of cannabis plants that contain low levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), used for industrial and medical purposes.

Usage Examples

1. "Hemp has been used for centuries to make strong and durable ropes."

2. "The company produces hemp-based products such as clothing, paper, and biodegradable plastics."

Etymology

From Old English "hemp," from Proto-Germanic *hampon, from Proto-Indo-European *khompo- meaning "hemp." The word traces back to ancient Indo-European roots used to refer to the plant and its fiber.

Synonyms

1. Cannabis (when referring to low-THC strains for industrial use)

2. Marijuana (in the context of cannabis plants with higher THC content, though this usage is technically different)

Antonyms

1. Cotton (as a plant fiber)

2. Synthetic fibers (man-made alternatives to hemp fibers)

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The pronunciation of "hemp" is relatively consistent across English-speaking regions, though variations may occur due to accents. Non-native speakers may sometimes pronounce the word with slight differences in vowel sounds.

Historical Usage

Hemp has been cultivated for thousands of years and has been used in textiles, ropes, and paper. It was one of the earliest domesticated crops, especially important in ancient civilizations for its strong fibers. In the early 20th century, hemp was banned in many countries due to its association with marijuana, although its industrial uses remain widespread.

Cultural Nuances

Hemp has played an important cultural role in many societies, particularly in areas where it has been used for its fiber. In the United States, hemp production was historically a staple crop, though it was overshadowed by the criminalization of cannabis. In recent years, hemp is experiencing a resurgence due to its potential for environmentally friendly products such as biodegradable plastics and eco-friendly textiles.

More Information

Hemp is a versatile plant that has been used throughout history for a variety of applications, from making ropes to producing oils and medicines. Unlike marijuana, which is another variety of the cannabis plant, hemp contains only trace amounts of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound. Today, hemp is used in many industries, including food, health supplements, textiles, and even construction materials, making it an important crop for sustainable development.