What does windrow mean?
A windrow is a long, narrow ridge or line of material, often formed for drying or gathering. In agriculture, windrows are commonly used to dry hay or grain before it is collected. The term can also refer to a line of objects arranged in a row, such as houses along a beach. Windrows are typically formed using a machine or by hand, and can be an efficient way to manage and process materials. The word 'windrow' is used in both British and US English, and is a useful term to know for anyone working in agriculture, landscaping, or construction.
A long, narrow ridge of hay, grain, or other material.
"The farmer raked the hay into a windrow to dry."
A line of objects arranged in a row.
"The houses were built in a windrow along the beach."
The plural form 'windrows' is used to refer to multiple ridges or lines of material.
"The farmer created several windrows of hay to dry in the sun."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of windrow
The word 'windrow' originated in the 15th century, likely from the words 'wind' and 'row'. It is related to the Old English word 'wind' and the Old Norse word 'vindr', both of which refer to air or wind. The term has evolved over time to encompass a range of meanings related to long, narrow ridges or lines of material.
How windrow is actually used
The term 'windrow' is often used in agriculture and landscaping. It can also be used more broadly to describe any long, narrow arrangement of objects.