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Plow: meaning, definitions and examples

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plow

 

[ plaʊ ]

Noun / Verb
Context #1 | Noun

farming

A plow is a farming tool used for cutting, lifting, and turning over soil in preparation for planting crops. It typically consists of a blade or blades attached to a frame which is dragged through the soil by a tractor or other vehicle.

Synonyms

plough.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
plow

Commonly used in American English when talking about farming or clearing snow.

  • The farmer used his tractor to plow the field
  • They had to plow the road after the snowstorm
plough

Predominantly used in British English with the same meaning as 'plow' in American English. Refers to farming activities or snow removal.

  • The farmer needed to plough the land before planting
  • They had to plough the streets after it snowed heavily

Examples of usage

  • The farmer used a plow to prepare the field for planting.
  • The plow turned over the rich soil, ready for sowing seeds.
Context #2 | Verb

farming

To plow means to use a plow to break up and turn over soil, usually in preparation for planting. It is an essential step in agriculture to ensure proper growth of crops.

Synonyms

cultivate, till.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
plow

Used when turning over the soil to prepare for planting. Commonly used in agriculture and farming.

  • Farmers plow the fields in early spring.
  • The new tractor can plow a larger area in less time.
till

Used similar to 'plow,' but often refers to a more detailed and intensive soil preparation process. It can carry a slightly old-fashioned or formal connotation.

  • The gardener tills the soil before planting the vegetables.
  • Tilling the land helps to remove weeds and mix in fertilizer.
cultivate

Used broadly to describe the process of preparing and using land for crops, including planting, caring, and harvesting. It can be used metaphorically for developing skills or relationships.

  • They cultivate the land with a variety of crops.
  • It's important to cultivate a strong work ethic in your team.

Examples of usage

  • The farmer plowed the field before sowing the seeds.
  • She plowed the land using a tractor.

Etymology

The word 'plow' originated from Old English 'plōh' which is derived from the Proto-Germanic word 'plōgaz'. The use of plows in agriculture dates back to ancient times, with various designs and materials used over the centuries to improve efficiency in farming practices.

See also: plough, plowing.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,882, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.