Hedges: meaning, definitions and examples

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hedges

[hɛdʒɪz ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

in gardening

A fence or boundary formed by closely planted bushes or shrubs.

Synonyms

border, boundary, enclosure.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
hedges	Refers to bushes or shrubs planted closely together to form a barrier or a boundary between two areas, commonly used in gardens or parks. They planted hedges around their garden to give them some privacy. The hedges along the pathway were beautifully trimmed.
boundary	Refers to the edge or limit of an area, often indicating ownership or control. It can also refer to social or personal limits. The river forms the boundary between the two counties. Setting personal boundaries is important for healthy relationships.
border	Used to describe the dividing line or area between two countries, regions, or properties. Can also describe a decorative edge or margin. We crossed the border into Canada yesterday. The tablecloth had a lovely embroidered border.
enclosure	Describes an area that is surrounded by a barrier or fence. It can refer to fenced-in areas for animals or other purposes. The zoo's tiger enclosure is very secure. They built a small enclosure for their chickens in the backyard.

Examples of usage

The garden was surrounded by hedges of roses and lavender.
She sat on the bench beside the hedge, enjoying the scent of the flowers.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

in conversation

To avoid giving a clear answer or making a commitment.

Synonyms

dodge, equivocate, prevaricate.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
hedges	Used when someone avoids giving a clear or direct answer, often to stay neutral or avoid taking a risk. When asked about the company's future plans, the CEO hedged and didn't provide any specifics. Instead of committing to a side, Sarah hedged her response to avoid controversy.
equivocate	Indicates speaking in a way that is intentionally not clear and open to multiple interpretations, often to deceive or mislead. When pressed on his views, the candidate equivocated to avoid alienating voters. She tends to equivocate when discussing her plans, leaving everyone unsure of what she really means.
prevaricate	Used when someone speaks or acts in an evasive way, often considered deceitful. It has a more negative connotation implying dishonesty. The suspect prevaricated when answering the detective's questions, raising suspicion. He was caught prevaricating about the details of the incident.
dodge	Implies actively evading or avoiding something, often used in situations where the avoidance is seen as intentional or slightly deceptive. He dodged the question by changing the subject. Politicians are often accused of dodging tough questions during interviews.

Examples of usage

He hedges his bets by investing in several different companies.
She always hedges when asked about her future plans.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

The use of hedge plants dates back to Ancient Rome when they were used for privacy and protection.
By the Middle Ages, hedges became common in Europe to mark property lines and protect farmland.

Gardening

Hedges can be shaped and trimmed into specific forms, adding artistry to home gardens.
Certain plants like boxwood and yew are popular choices for creating formal hedges due to their dense foliage.

Environmental Impact

Hedges provide habitats for various wildlife, serving as homes for birds and insects.
They also help in preventing soil erosion and can act as windbreaks, protecting crops and gardens.

Cultural Significance

In literature and art, hedges often symbolize barriers or hidden secrets, inviting interpretation.
Hedges feature prominently in English country gardens, often seen as a traditional aspect of landscape design.

Idiomatic Expressions

The phrase 'beating around the bush' refers to avoiding the main point, much like how hedges might obscure a clear view.
In finance, the term 'hedging' refers to strategies that protect against risks, linking back to the concept of creating barriers for security.

Translations

Translations of the word "hedges" in other languages:

🇵🇹 cercas-vivas

🇮🇳 झाड़ियाँ

🇩🇪 Hecken

🇮🇩 pagar tanaman

🇺🇦 живоплоти

🇵🇱 żywopłoty

🇯🇵 生垣 (いけがき)

🇫🇷 haies

🇪🇸 setos

🇹🇷 çitler

🇰🇷 울타리

🇸🇦 الأسيجة

🇨🇿 živé ploty

🇸🇰 živé ploty

🇨🇳 树篱 (shùlí)

🇸🇮 žive meje

🇮🇸 limgerði

🇰🇿 қоршау

🇬🇪 ბუჩქნარი

🇦🇿 çitlər

🇲🇽 setos

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,737, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.

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13734 havoc
13735 scraps
13736 authenticated
13737 hedges
13738 mockery
13739 casein
13740 stemming
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