Hop Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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hop

[hɒp ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

jumping

To move by a quick springy leap or in a series of leaps; to jump.

Synonyms

bound, jump, leap.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
hop

Used to describe a short, quick movement, often on one leg. It can also refer to small animals like birds or frogs.

  • The bird hopped across the lawn
  • She hopped on one foot after stepping on a sharp stone
jump

A more general term for lifting off the ground, usually on two feet. It can be used in sports, games, or everyday life.

  • She can jump very high on the trampoline
  • The kids were jumping up and down with excitement
leap

Describes a large, impressive jump, often with a sense of grace or purpose. It can also be used metaphorically.

  • The athlete leaped over the high bar with ease
  • He took a leap of faith and started his own business
bound

Often used to describe a larger, more deliberate movement with energy. It can also refer to someone or something going in a particular direction.

  • The dog bounded towards its owner
  • The rabbit made a bound and disappeared into the bushes

Examples of usage

  • The rabbit hopped across the field.
  • She hopped out of bed and ran to the window.
Context #2 | Noun

beer

A type of beer that is light in color and flavor, and usually has a higher than average alcohol content.

Synonyms

ale, beer, brew.

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Word Description / Examples
hop

Hop is often used in the context of discussing the ingredients of beer. It is a flower that gives beer its bitter taste and aroma.

  • This beer has a strong hop flavor.
  • Hops are essential for adding bitterness to the brew.
beer

Beer is a general term for a fermented beverage made primarily from malted barley, hops, yeast, and water. It includes various types such as lagers, ales, stouts, and more.

  • Would you like a cold beer?
  • Beer is one of the most popular alcoholic drinks in the world.
ale

Ale refers to a type of beer that is brewed using a warm fermentation method, resulting in a sweet, full-bodied, and fruity taste.

  • They served a delicious pale ale at the pub last night.
  • Ale tends to have a higher alcohol content than lager.
brew

Brew can refer to the process of making beer or the final product itself. It can be used in a broader sense to describe the act of making any fermented beverage.

  • He loves to brew his own beer at home.
  • This is a fine brew; you can taste the quality.

Examples of usage

  • I'll have a cold hop after work.
  • He prefers a hop with his burger.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Biology

  • Numerous amphibians, like frogs and toads, possess powerful back legs allowing them to hop efficiently away from predators.
  • Certain birds, such as the kangaroo, use hopping as their main mode of locomotion, showcasing adaptation in evolution.
  • Hopping sponges, a unique type of sea sponge, use similar movements to circulate water and capture food.

Sports

  • In basketball, a 'hop' can refer to a player quickly jumping to make a shot or block.
  • In traditional hopping competitions, participants must jump in a specific manner for distance or height.
  • The phrase 'hopscotch' derives from a children's game where players hop on squares drawn on the ground, adding fun to movement.

Cultural References

  • The term 'hop' appears in various music and dance styles, such as 'hip-hop', emphasizing energetic movements.
  • In folklore, the idea of rabbits associated with hopping relates to themes of fertility and springtime joy.
  • The phrase 'give it a hop' is commonly used in informal conversation to encourage someone to make a small leap or effort.

Psychology

  • Studies show that rhythmic hopping can enhance mood and energy levels, making it an enjoyable physical activity.
  • Engaging in hopping games can improve children's coordination and balance while also developing social skills through play.
  • The repetitive motion of hopping may reduce stress and help individuals focus through the release of endorphins.

Origin of 'hop'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'hop' comes from Middle English 'hoppen,' which is related to similar words in other Germanic languages.
  • It originally described the quick, light jumps of small animals before being used for human movement.
  • In the early 15th century, it began to be used in a more playful context, emphasizing fun over mere movement.

The word 'hop' originated in the late 15th century, derived from the Middle Dutch word 'huppen', meaning 'to hop, leap'. It initially referred to the action of jumping or leaping, and later evolved to also represent a type of beer with a distinctive taste. The term 'hop' has remained in usage over the centuries, retaining its core meanings while also branching out into various contexts.


See also: hopped, hopper.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,445, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.