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Reaped Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐ŸŒพ
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reaped

[riหpt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

harvesting crops

Reaped refers to the act of cutting and gathering crops when they are ripe. This word is often associated with agriculture and farming, particularly the process of harvesting grains such as wheat, barley, or rice. In a broader sense, to reap also means to obtain or receive a reward or benefit as a result of actions or efforts. It implies that something has been cultivated and is now ready to be gathered or collected, highlighting the relationship between hard work and rewards.

Synonyms

collected, gathered, harvested, obtained.

Examples of usage

  • Farmers reaped their harvest in late summer.
  • After months of effort, she finally reaped the benefits of her hard work.
  • They reaped a large crop this year.
  • We reaped a good return on our investment.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Agriculture

  • Historically, reaping was done using handheld tools like sickles before the invention of machines.
  • Modern tools like combines allow farmers to reap crops quickly and efficiently, transforming agricultural practices.
  • The reaping season varies depending on the crop, location, and climate affecting harvest times.

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, harvest festivals celebrate the act of reaping, showing gratitude for a successful crop.
  • Literature often uses reaping as a metaphor for gathering the results of one's actions, both good and bad.
  • In the Bible, the concept of reaping is often linked to sowing, symbolizing cause and effect in life.

Philosophy

  • The saying 'you reap what you sow' reflects a principle that actions lead to consequences, similar to planting seeds to grow crops.
  • This idea is central to many philosophical teachings, emphasizing the importance of ethical behavior.
  • The metaphor extends beyond agriculture, influencing discussions on personal responsibility and justice.

Economics

  • In economic terms, reaping can refer to gaining benefits or profits from investments or efforts.
  • The concept of 'reaping returns' is common in finance, symbolizing the outcomes of smart investments over time.
  • Reaping is often discussed in the context of labor, where the effort put into work results in rewards or earnings.

Origin of 'reaped'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old English 'reapian,' meaning to gather or harvest.
  • It is related to the Proto-Germanic word '*raupลnฤ…,' which also means to gather or harvest.
  • The word has roots in several languages, including Dutch ('rappen') and German ('reben'), both meaning to reap or to gather.

The word 'reap' comes from the Old English 'rฤ“pan,' which means 'to cut, to gather,' particularly in relation to harvesting crops. This term is closely linked to agricultural practices that date back to ancient times when farming was a crucial aspect of society. The process of reaping symbolized not just the physical act of cutting crops but also the gathering of rewards from laborious work. Over centuries, 'reap' evolved, and its usage expanded to include figurative meanings, such as reaping the benefits of one's efforts. The term has maintained its importance across various cultures and languages, embodying the connection between effort and outcome.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,294, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.