REAPER Meaning and
Definition
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A reaper is a noun that refers to an agricultural harvesting machine used for cutting and gathering crops such as wheat, barley, or corn. The machine consists of a cutting apparatus or a sickle mounted on a revolving wheel with sharp teeth or blades. It is typically pulled by animals, powered by steam or an engine, or operated self-propelled. As the reaper moves through a field, the cutting mechanism slices the standing crop near the base, and the crop is then gathered and bound into bundles. The reaper revolutionized agriculture by significantly reducing the manual effort required for harvesting, thereby increasing efficiency and productivity.
The term "reaper" can also be used metaphorically to describe a person or entity that is responsible for causing death or destruction. In folklore and mythology, a reaper is often personified as a grim figure wielding a scythe, symbolic of death. The grim reaper represents mortality and is often associated with the concept of the inevitable end of life. In modern literature, this metaphorical usage of "reaper" is commonly found in phrases like "The reaper of souls" or "Angel of death," implying a figure who collects or takes away lives. This figurative usage emphasizes the powerful and decisive role played by such a person or force, often evoking a sense of fear or awe.
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One who or that which reaps.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for REAPER *
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Other Common Misspellings for REAPER
Etymology of REAPER
The word "reaper" has its origins in the Old English language. It is derived from the verb "repan" which means "to reap" or "to cut". The Old English word for a reaper was "reprere", and over time, it evolved into the Middle English word "repere". Eventually, it transformed into its current form, "reaper", in Modern English. The term "reaper" refers to a person or machine that cuts and gathers crops, particularly grain.
Idioms with the word REAPER
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grim reaper
The idiom "grim reaper" refers to a personification of death who is depicted as a tall, skeletal figure wearing a black cloak and carrying a scythe, often associated with collecting or taking away souls from the living. It is commonly used metaphorically to describe death or a situation or event that causes great danger, harm, or destruction.
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the Grim Reaper
The idiom "the Grim Reaper" refers to a personification of death, often depicted as a cloaked figure wielding a scythe. It symbolizes the inevitable and inescapable nature of death, typically used to describe a person, situation, or event that signals imminent danger, harm, or an impending catastrophe.
Similar spelling words for REAPER
- reappear,
- refer,
- reber,
- reverie,
- reiber,
- reefer,
- revere,
- revery,
- repair,
- raper,
- referee.
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