oats
UK: əʊts | US: oʊts
Definition
n. A type of cereal grain, commonly used for food (e.g., oatmeal) or animal feed.
Structure
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Etymology
The word "oats" traces back to Old English āte (singular) or ātan (plural), derived from Proto-Germanic aitōn. Unlike many modern English words, "oats" does not split into smaller meaningful morphemes. It belongs to a category of ancient Germanic residue words with compact, non-compound structures. Historically, oats were a staple crop in Northern Europe, and the word’s persistence reflects its agricultural importance.
Examples
Oats are a nutritious breakfast option.
Farmers grow oats to feed livestock.
She prefers oatmeal with honey and berries.
The field was golden with ripe oats.
Oats thrive in cooler climates.