Furrows, /ˈfɜːrəʊz/, is a word that refers to the shallow grooves made on the surface of land. The word is spelled with a double "r" and double "o", which indicates the long vowel sound in the first syllable, pronounced as /fɜː/. The second syllable has the schwa sound, represented by /əʊ/ in phonetic transcription. The spelling of this word follows the English language's conventions of doubling consonants to indicate the preceding vowel's length. Overall, furrows is a word that conveys the idea of a land or surface with grooves.
Furrows refer to narrow, shallow depressions or grooves that are typically found on the surface of a material, such as soil, skin, or fabric. This term is commonly used to describe the distinct lines or ridges that are formed when something is plowed, cultivated, or wrinkled.
When referring to agricultural fields, furrows are created by a plow or tillage tool that cuts into the soil, turning it over and creating linear indentations. The purpose of furrowing is often to prepare the soil for planting seeds or seedlings, as it helps to loosen the ground and enhance water absorption. In farming practices, furrows serve as channels for distributing water or nutrients efficiently, preventing erosion, and aiding in plant growth.
The term furrows can also be used in reference to the human body, particularly the skin. Facial furrows, for example, are the lines or wrinkles that develop over time due to various factors, such as aging, repetitive facial expressions, or sun damage. These furrows often appear on the forehead, between the eyebrows, or around the mouth, and are a natural part of the aging process.
In textiles or fabrics, furrows can be accidental creases or intentional folds that occur during manufacturing, transport, or storage. These wrinkles can sometimes affect the appearance and texture of the material, but they can usually be smoothed out with proper care and handling.
Overall, furrows are narrow lines or grooves that are formed on the surface of various materials, and their significance varies depending on the context in which they are used.
The word furrows has its etymology in Old English. It is derived from the Old English word furh or furuh, which means furrow or trench. The Old English word furh is related to the Old Norse word fyri, meaning furrow, and the Old High German word fora, also meaning furrow. Ultimately, all these words trace back to the Proto-Germanic root furhaz, which refers to a furrow or a plowed track. This term is likely derived from the Proto-Indo-European root perku, meaning to dig or to plow.