hop

//hɒp//

Nouns
B1

Translation

hop

Definition

Hop is a climbing plant whose dried flowers (known as hop cones) are used primarily in brewing beer to add bitterness, flavor, and aroma, and also act as a preservative. The plant, Humulus lupulus, is a perennial vine that grows in temperate regions and is cultivated extensively for the brewing industry. In addition to its role in beer production, hops have been used in herbal medicine for their sedative and anti-inflammatory properties, though this is less common. The term 'hop' specifically refers to the plant or its cones, not the act of jumping.

Example

  • The brewery sources its hops from local farms in the Pacific Northwest.

  • Hops give beer its characteristic bitter taste and help balance the sweetness of malt.

  • Farmers harvest hops in late summer when the cones are fully mature.

  • This IPA is known for its strong hop aroma, with notes of citrus and pine.

  • The hop plant can grow up to 20 feet in a single season if supported by a trellis.

  • She added dried hops to the boil to increase the beer's bitterness.

  • Hops are also used in some traditional medicines to promote sleep and relaxation.

  • The price of hops fluctuates depending on the harvest yield each year.

  • Craft breweries often experiment with different hop varieties to create unique flavors.

  • After harvesting, hops are dried and pelletized for easier storage and use.

Synonyms

Humulus lupulus
hop cone
hops

Other meanings

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