1
as in to mow
to bring down by cutting laboriously hewed trees to build their rude log cabins

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2
as in to adhere
to hold to something firmly as if by adhesion decided to hew to the original plan rather than change everything

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of hew Rough-hewn reclaimed wood beams, varying door heights, and intentionally mismatched vintage hardware create an authenticity often lacking in new construction. Kristen Flanagan, Architectural Digest, 31 Mar. 2025 Surprisingly, unlike white Christians who tend to hew Republican, Black Christians are no more likely to be Democrats or Republicans. Paul Du Quenoy, MSNBC Newsweek, 26 Mar. 2025 This version hews a little closer to the source and also has the coldest, most clinical take so far, courtesy of Robert Elswit’s gorgeous black-and-white cinematography and Steven Zaillian’s ace direction. Brian Tallerico, Vulture, 18 Mar. 2025 In some cases, while working under deadlines and pressure, my language unintentionally hewed too closely to theirs. Colleen McCain Nelson, Sacramento Bee, 28 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for hew
Recent Examples of Synonyms for hew
Verb
  • Here's exactly when to start mowing your lawn, depending on your growing conditions and grass type.
    Megan Hughes, Better Homes & Gardens, 22 Mar. 2025
  • That insulation and humidity retention can improve germination, and the cover can be removed as the new grass approaches mowing height.
    Miri Talabac, Baltimore Sun, 21 Mar. 2025
Verb
  • To avoid these potentially destabilizing effects, military leaders will need to explain what the country stands to lose if the military devotes excess time, resources, and attention to domestic operations and fails to adhere carefully to the laws of war.
    Risa Brooks, Foreign Affairs, 8 Apr. 2025
  • The faulty cant rails appear to stem from inadequate glue used to adhere the components to the vehicle frame, which allegedly weakens after exposure to freezing temperatures.
    Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 20 Mar. 2025
Verb
  • Related article Damage to ancient Hadrian’s Wall confirmed after famous UK tree ‘deliberately felled’ Jon Stokes, director of trees, science and research at the Tree Council, said in the trust’s statement that ancient oaks can live up to 1,000 years.
    Olivia Kemp, CNN Money, 17 Apr. 2025
  • In some scenes of the film, the relationship remains much closer as in Myanmar, where loggers use elephants to move giant trees felled for timber.
    Matthew Carey, Deadline, 23 Mar. 2025
Verb
  • But whether the trial's May 5 start date will stick is another story.
    Patrick Ryan, USA Today, 19 Apr. 2025
  • Moving Rafaela clears room for Anthony to stick in the lineup.
    Josh Hammer, MSNBC Newsweek, 15 Apr. 2025
Verb
  • Banks that cling to legacy distribution models may see their brand recognition diminish, even as demand for their core services remains strong.
    Christer Holloman, Forbes.com, 14 Apr. 2025
  • The creator, known as Ayla Meade, shared a short video to the platform on April 8, capturing her loyal dog clinging to her arm and shoulder during a few car rides.
    David Faris, MSNBC Newsweek, 11 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Hew.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/hew. Accessed 23 Apr. 2025.

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