khat

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Word: Khat

Part of Speech: Noun

Definition: Khat refers to the leaves of a shrub called Catha edulis. These leaves are often chewed like tobacco or brewed to make tea. When chewed or consumed, khat acts as a stimulant, which means it can make people feel more energetic and euphoric (happy or excited). In Yemen, for example, about 85% of adults use khat regularly.

Usage Instructions:

• Khat is typically used in social situations, especially in some cultures where people gather to chew khat together.
• It is important to note that khat is not legal everywhere, and its use can have health effects.

Example Sentence:

"After work, my friends and I like to sit together and chew khat while chatting."

Advanced Usage:

In some contexts, khat can be discussed in terms of its cultural significance, social implications, or health effects. For example, one might say: "The traditional practice of chewing khat in Yemen plays a significant role in social bonding and community gatherings."

Word Variants:

• Khatting (verb): The act of chewing khat or using it in a social context.
• Khat farmer (noun): A person who grows khat plants for sale or personal use.

Different Meaning:

While "khat" primarily refers to the leaves of the Catha edulis plant, it does not have widely recognized alternative meanings in English. However, it is important to remember that khat is known by different names in various regions, such as "qat" or "gat."

Synonyms:

• There are no direct synonyms for "khat" in English, but it may be informally referred to as "stimulant leaves" in discussions about its effects.

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

There are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs that include the word "khat," as it is a relatively specific term related to a cultural practice.

Summary:

Khat is a plant whose leaves are chewed for their stimulating effects. It is an important part of social life in certain cultures, particularly in Yemen.

Academic

Noun

1. the leaves of the shrub Catha edulis which are chewed like tobacco or used to make tea; has the effect of a euphoric stimulant
   • in Yemen kat is used daily by 85% of adults

Synonyms

• kat
• qat
• quat
• cat
• Arabian tea
• African tea