spike-tooth harrow: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples

No. A spike-tooth harrow uses rigid, pointed metal tines to break up soil. A disc harrow uses a series of concave metal discs that cut and mix the soil. They are used for different stages and types of soil preparation.

Yes, but it is less common on large-scale commercial farms. It is still used for specific purposes like light weeding, incorporating cover crops, or preparing seedbeds in organic or small-scale farming where minimal soil disturbance is desired.

It is named for its working parts: the 'teeth' are the long, pointed metal tines that penetrate the soil. 'Spike' describes their sharp, pointed shape, distinguishing them from other tooth designs like spring teeth or curved teeth.

Yes, etymologically. The verb 'to harrow' originally meant to drag a harrow over soil. Figuratively, it came to mean 'to lacerate the feelings, to distress greatly', much like the implement tears up the ground. Thus, a 'harrowing experience' is metaphorically linked to this agricultural tool.

An agricultural implement consisting of a frame with long, pointed metal spikes (teeth) set in rows, used for breaking up and levelling soil, particularly after plowing.

Spike-tooth harrow is usually technical / agricultural in register.

Spike-tooth harrow: in British English it is pronounced /ˌspaɪk.tuːθ ˈhær.əʊ/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌspaɪk.tuθ ˈhæroʊ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.