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A plow, also known as a plough, is a farming implement designed to prepare the soil for planting crops. It consists of a heavy, typically metal, blade attached to a long beam with an attached handle or handles for guiding and controlling. The blade, commonly referred to as the plowshare, is often pointed and made of hardened steel to facilitate cutting through the soil. The beam serves as a connecting point between the plowshare and the animal or tractor pulling it.
The primary purpose of a plow is to break up and turn over the soil, bringing nutrient-rich underlying layers to the surface while burying weeds and plant residues. By creating furrows or trenches, the plow creates a loose and aerated seedbed that promotes seed germination and healthy root development. Depending on the purpose and scale of farming, different types of plows are available, including moldboard plows, chisel plows, and disc plows among others.
Historically, plowing played a pivotal role in agriculture, fueling the advancement of human civilization. It revolutionized farming methods, allowing for larger-scale cultivation and more efficient agricultural practices. While modern technology has introduced alternative methods for soil preparation, such as no-till farming, the plow remains a valuable tool in many agricultural contexts.
Beyond agriculture, the term "plow" can also be used metaphorically to describe the act of making a determined effort in a particular endeavor, often associated with perseverance, hard work, and overcoming obstacles.
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An old spelling of plough.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "plow" has its origins in Old English. It can be traced back to the Old English word "plog", which itself derived from the Proto-Germanic word "plōgaz". This Proto-Germanic root eventually led to similar words in other Germanic languages such as Middle Low German "plōch" and Old Norse "plógr". The word "plow" referred to the agricultural implement used for breaking up soil and turning it over, thereby preparing it for planting crops.
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