Mow Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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mow

[moสŠ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

grass cutting

Mow refers to the act of cutting grass or crops with a scythe, sickle, or machine. It is a common practice in agriculture and gardening to keep the vegetation at a desired height.

Synonyms

cut, harvest, trim.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
mow

This word is typically used when you are talking about cutting grass or a lawn using a machine like a lawnmower.

  • I need to mow the lawn this weekend.
  • Our neighbor mows his grass every Saturday morning.
cut

This word is very general and can be used for slicing, removing, or severing something with a sharp tool. Use it for various materials like wood, paper, or food.

  • He cut the paper with scissors.
  • I cut the vegetables for the salad.
trim

Use this word when you are referring to cutting small amounts to make something look neat and tidy, like hedges, hair, or a beard.

  • She needs to trim the hedges.
  • I went to the salon to get my hair trimmed.
harvest

When you are talking about gathering mature crops from the fields, use this word. It often implies a larger scale agricultural activity.

  • The farmers will harvest the wheat in the fall.
  • We harvested the apples from the orchard.

Examples of usage

  • The farmer went out to mow the field early in the morning.
  • She uses a mower to mow the lawn every weekend.
  • We need to mow the grass before it gets too tall.
Context #2 | Verb

lawn care

To mow means to cut down grass or vegetation in a specific area, usually with a lawnmower. It is a regular maintenance task for keeping lawns and gardens tidy and well-kept.

Synonyms

cut, mow down, trim.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
mow

Duplicated entry similar to the first 'mow'.

  • This is a duplicate, see above
trim

Refers to cutting something down to size, tidying it up, or maintaining its neat appearance. Commonly used for hair, hedges, or articles of clothing.

  • She went to the salon to trim her bangs
cut

General term for slicing through something; it can be used for hair, paper, meat, etc.

  • She decided to cut her hair short
mow down

Often used in a violent context, meaning to kill or knock down many people at once, usually with a weapon.

  • The soldiers mowed down the enemy troops in a swift attack

Examples of usage

  • He mows the lawn every Saturday morning.
  • She asked her son to mow the backyard before the party.
  • The park maintenance crew will mow the grass today.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, keeping the lawn neat is a sign of pride and home care.
  • Historical records show that in medieval Europe, mowing was often a communal activity, bringing neighborhoods together.
  • Lawn mowing has become a symbol of suburban life in many Western countries, associated with homeownership and leisure.

Technology

  • The invention of the rotary lawn mower in the 1830s revolutionized how lawns were maintained, making it easier and quicker to mow.
  • Today, robotic mowers are gaining popularity, allowing people to maintain their lawns with minimal effort.
  • Advancements in mower design have also led to more environmentally friendly options, including electric and battery-powered models.

Science & Ecology

  • Mowing grass promotes healthier growth by encouraging denser grass and reducing weeds.
  • Regular mowing can help control pests and diseases in lawns, contributing to a healthier ecosystem.
  • Different mowing heights can affect the type of grass and plant species that thrive in your yard.

Fitness & Lifestyle

  • Mowing the lawn can be a form of exercise, burning calories while providing physical activity.
  • Some people enjoy mowing as a meditative practice, allowing them to connect with nature and their environment.
  • The rhythmic motion of mowing can be relaxing, helping to reduce stress and boost mood.

Origin of 'mow'

Main points about word origin

  • The word originated from the Old English term 'mฤwan,' which meant to cut or harvest.
  • In Middle English, it evolved to 'mowen,' indicating the action of cutting grass or crops.
  • The original usage was not just limited to grass but referred to any type of harvesting in farming.

The word 'mow' has Old English origins, coming from the word 'mฤwan' which meant 'to mow'. It has been used for centuries to describe the action of cutting down grass or crops. Over time, the techniques and tools for mowing have evolved, leading to the modern practices we see today in agriculture and lawn care.


Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,216, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.