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Winnower Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐ŸŒพ
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winnower

[หˆwษชnษ™สŠษ™r ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

agricultural tool

A winnower is a device used in agriculture for separating grain from chaff. It functions by using a combination of movement and air. Traditionally, winnowing was done by hand, but modern winnowers may be mechanical. They help improve the quality and purity of harvested grains. The process not only increases efficiency in grain processing but also ensures that the final product is free of unwanted debris.

Synonyms

cleaner, separator, thresher.

Examples of usage

  • The farmer used a traditional winnower to separate his wheat.
  • Modern winnowers can process large quantities of grain quickly.
  • After harvesting, they employed a winnower to clean the rice.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Agricultural Technology

  • Modern winnowers often use fans to blow chaff away from the grain, improving efficiency in harvesting.
  • Traditional methods of winnowing involved tossing grain into the air and letting the wind carry away the lighter material.

Cultural Relevance

  • Winnowing is a crucial step in many culturesโ€™ agricultural processes, especially in regions that rely heavily on grain crops.
  • In some countries, winnowing is a communal activity, bringing communities together during harvest season.

Pop Culture

  • Winnowers are often depicted in literature and art as symbols of effort and cleanliness in agriculture.
  • The image of a winnowing scene is sometimes used in films or stories that depict rural life, emphasizing traditional farming methods.

Origin of 'winnower'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from Old English 'windwian', meaning 'to separate by wind', reflecting how wind is used in the process.
  • It first appeared in English texts around the 14th century, associated with agricultural practices.

The term 'winnower' originates from the Old English word 'windwian,' which means 'to separate by means of wind.' This term reflects the historical method of winnowing, where grain was tossed into the air so that the lighter chaff would blow away with the wind while the heavier grains fell back to the ground. This practice dates back thousands of years and has been vital in various agricultural civilizations. Over time, as agriculture evolved, more sophisticated equipment was developed, transforming the winnowing process into a more efficient and less labor-intensive task. The modern winnower may integrate advanced technology, including motors and fans, to automate the separation process, reflecting the continuous innovation in farming practices.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #41,333, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.