Pronunciation: [hˈə͡ʊə] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "hoer" is often mistaken for "whore" due to their similar sounding pronunciations. However, they have different meanings, with "hoer" referring to a farming tool used for weeding and "whore" referring to a prostitute. The IPA phonetic transcription for "hoer" is /hɔːr/, with the "h" being silent and the "o" pronounced as "aw" like in the word "law." The "e" is pronounced as a short "e" like in the word "bet."
A "hoer" is a term that refers to an individual who engages in the act of hoing, which involves loosening and breaking up the soil using a specific tool called a hoe. The hoer is typically a laborer or farmer who performs the task of hoeing as a regular occupation or as a means of cultivating their land for agricultural purposes.
The hoer typically utilizes a hoe, which is a long-handled gardening tool with a narrow flat blade on one end. This tool is used to agitate or disturb the top layer of the soil, making it easier for seeds to be planted and aiding in weed control. The hoer moves the hoe back and forth, either pushing or pulling the blade through the soil, effectively breaking up clumps and creating a loose, aerated surface.
The hoer's role is fundamental in preparing the soil for planting crops, as it helps promote better water drainage, root growth, and nutrient uptake. Through their careful and skilled manipulation of the hoe, hoers contribute to the overall success and productivity of an agricultural operation.
In summary, a hoer is an individual who specializes in implementing the technique of hoing, using a hoe to break up and loosen the soil to facilitate more efficient farming practices.
The word "hoer" has its origins in Middle Dutch and Middle Low German. In Middle Dutch, it was spelled as "hōre" and in Middle Low German as "hore" or "horewe". It is derived from the Old High German word "huora" which means "prostitute" or "whore". This term ultimately stems from the Proto-Germanic word "hōraz" which had the same meaning.
