African hemp
- noun
- South African
:
cáñamo africano
- The fibers of African hemp were traditionally used to make strong ropes and twine.
Examples
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Researchers are studying the potential uses of African hemp in sustainable materials.
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Gardeners often grow African hemp as an ornamental plant for its striking leaves.
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The African hemp plant is known for its durability.
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Many artisans use African hemp for crafting strong ropes.
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The fibers of African hemp were traditionally used to make strong ropes and twine.
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Many artisans use African hemp for crafting durable and strong ropes.
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Researchers are studying the potential uses of African hemp in sustainable materials.
Synonyms
A South African plant whose long, strong leaves people use to make rope
A tropical African plant with long stiff leaves that people use as a houseplant and for strong ropes
A tropical African houseplant with long, pointed leaves
How Strong
Surface Forms
Morphology
The adjective+noun composition 'African hemp' transparently signals a hemp-like, fibrous plant associated with Africa, so a B1 learner who knows 'African' and 'hemp' will infer it is an African plant used for fiber. There is a technical botanical detail (it can refer to Sansevieria rather than Cannabis) that is specialized and not predictable, but this does not prevent basic comprehension of the phrase's meaning.
Etymology
African hemp gets its name from the plant's long, tough leaves and fibers that people once used like hemp to make strong ropes and 'bowstrings'. That's why the name highlights the plant's use for strong, useful fibers.