Howe
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Proper noun:
- A surname of notable individuals: "Howe" is primarily used as a surname for several historically significant figures in American and Canadian history.
Usage Examples
- Proper noun:
- Elias Howe invented an important early sewing machine. (Refers to the 19th-century American inventor.)
- Julia Ward Howe was a prominent writer and activist. (Refers to the 19th/20th-century American feminist and poet.)
- Gordie Howe is a legendary figure in professional hockey. (Refers to the 20th-century Canadian hockey player.)
Advanced Usage
- "Howe" as an eponym: The name can be used to refer to the achievements or era associated with the person.
- The Howe sewing machine patent was a landmark case. (Referring to the legal and industrial impact of Elias Howe's work.)
Variants and Related Words
- Howe truss (n): A specific design of bridge truss.
- Howe Sound (n): A geographic feature in British Columbia, Canada.
Synonyms
- Surname: Family name, last name. (This describes the word's grammatical category, not a direct synonym for the specific individuals.)
Notes on Meaning
The word "Howe" itself does not have multiple common meanings outside of its use as a proper noun (surname). Its significance comes entirely from the famous individuals who bear the name. The provided definition lists four distinct people: 1. Elias Howe: American inventor. 2. Julia Ward Howe: American feminist and author. 3. Gordie Howe: Canadian hockey player. 4. Howe, Irving (implied by "United States editor"): American literary and social critic.
When encountered, context is essential to determine which specific person is being referenced.
Noun
- United States inventor who built early sewing machines and won suits for patent infringement against other manufacturers (including Isaac M. Singer) (1819-1867)
- United States feminist who was active in the women's suffrage movement (1819-1910)
- Canadian hockey player who holds the record for playing the most games (born 1928)
- United States editor (1920-1993)