cane

UK: keɪn | US: keɪn

Definition

  1. n. 1. The hollow, jointed stem of tall grasses (e.g., bamboo, sugar cane).

  2. n. 2. A walking stick or rod, often made of cane or wood.

  3. vt. 3. To beat or punish with a cane.

Structure
cane <reed/stem>
Etymology

The word "cane" traces back to Latin canna, meaning "reed" or "tube," borrowed into Old French as cane. It originally referred to the hollow stems of reeds or bamboo, later extending to walking sticks made from such materials. The verb form (to beat with a cane) emerged from the instrument's use in corporal punishment.

Examples

  1. Sugar cane is a major crop in tropical regions.

  2. He leaned on a wooden cane after his injury.

  3. The teacher threatened to cane unruly students.

  4. The chair was woven from durable cane.

  5. She tapped her cane rhythmically on the pavement.