Greenhouse Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐ŸŒฟ
Add to dictionary

greenhouse

[หˆษกriหnhaสŠs ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

agriculture

A greenhouse is a building with glass walls and a glass roof, used for growing plants that need warmth and protection.

Synonyms

glasshouse, hotbox, hothouse.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
greenhouse

A structure used to grow plants in a controlled environment. Suitable for both scientific research and gardening.

  • She spends weekends tending to her tomatoes in the greenhouse
  • The greenhouse helps extend the growing season for many plants
glasshouse

A type of greenhouse made primarily of glass, often used in a more formal or ornamental setting.

  • The botanical garden's glasshouse was a marvel of Victorian engineering
  • Rare orchids thrived in the glasshouse's humid environment
hothouse

A heated greenhouse, especially one used for growing tender plants or vegetables. Can also imply an intense environment in a figurative sense.

  • The hothouse was filled with tropical plants that couldn't survive outdoors
  • The startup's office felt like a hothouse of innovation and stress
hotbox

A small, heated structure used for growing plants, often utilized for starting seeds early in the season. Informal term, sometimes used casually.

  • He built a hotbox in his backyard to get a head start on growing herbs
  • The hotbox kept the seedlings warm during the cold nights

Examples of usage

  • The tomatoes in the greenhouse are thriving.
  • She grows flowers in her greenhouse all year round.
Context #2 | Noun

environment

A greenhouse is a gas in Earth's atmosphere that traps heat. It helps the planet stay warm enough to sustain life.

Synonyms

carbon dioxide, methane, water vapor.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
greenhouse

This word is also used in the context of the 'greenhouse effect,' which refers to the warming of Earth's surface due to the trapping of heat by certain gases.

  • The greenhouse effect is causing global temperatures to rise.
  • Greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide and methane trap heat in the atmosphere.
carbon dioxide

This term is suitable for discussions related to gases, chemistry, or the environment, especially when talking about emissions and climate change.

  • Trees absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen.
  • Carbon dioxide emissions from cars contribute to global warming.
methane

This is appropriate for environmental or scientific discussions about climate change, as methane is a potent greenhouse gas.

  • Methane is released during the production of natural gas and oil.
  • Cows produce methane as part of their digestive process, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions.
water vapor

Use this term when discussing the water cycle, weather forecasting, or greenhouse effects, as water vapor is also a greenhouse gas.

  • Water vapor in the air eventually condenses into clouds and causes rain.
  • Increased water vapor can enhance the greenhouse effect and lead to more warming.

Examples of usage

  • The greenhouse effect is causing global warming.
  • Too many greenhouse gases are being released into the atmosphere.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Greenhouses work by trapping sunlight, which warms the air inside, creating a perfect environment for plant growth.
  • They can help extend the growing season, allowing crops to be cultivated even in colder climates.

Agriculture

  • In modern farming, greenhouses are increasingly used to grow organic produce, helping farmers reduce pesticide use.
  • They can support the growth of exotic plants not suited for local climates, enhancing biodiversity.

Environmental Impact

  • Using a greenhouse can lead to more efficient water usage, as the controlled environment reduces evaporation.
  • They play a role in urban agriculture, helping to promote food sustainability in cities.

Pop Culture

  • Greenhouses often appear in films as serene, magical places where characters find peace or inspiration.
  • Many educational programs and children's books feature greenhouses to teach kids about plants and ecology.

Origin of 'greenhouse'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'greenhouse' combines 'green,' relating to the color of plants, and 'house,' meaning a building.
  • The term became common in the 19th century, although similar structures had been built much earlier.

The term 'greenhouse' originated in the 19th century, named after greenhouses used for growing plants. The concept of the 'greenhouse effect' in relation to Earth's atmosphere was first described in the 1820s by Joseph Fourier, and further developed by John Tyndall in the 1860s.


See also: evergreen, green, greenback, greenbacks, greenery, greenhorn, greenness, greens, greenstone, greensward.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,342 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.