reed

[riːd]

reed Definition

  • 1a tall, slender-leaved plant of the grass family that grows in water or on marshy ground
  • 2a thin strip of material, typically cane, straw, or a synthetic substance, used for weaving or plaiting items such as baskets, hats, or chair seats
  • 3a musical instrument made from a reed, especially a type of mouth organ or a clarinet

Using reed: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "reed" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The pond was full of reeds and lily pads.

  • Example

    She wove a basket out of reeds.

  • Example

    He played a tune on his reed flute.

  • Example

    The clarinet is a woodwind instrument with a single reed.

reed Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for reed

Phrases with reed

  • blow a (or one's) own reed

    to boast or brag about oneself

    Example

    I don't mean to blow my own reed, but I'm pretty good at this game.

  • the last (or final) straw (that breaks the camel's back)

    the final problem in a series of problems that makes it impossible for someone to continue to accept a situation

    Example

    When he forgot my birthday, that was the last straw.

  • to distinguish valuable people or things from worthless ones

    Example

    The new system will help us separate the wheat from the chaff when it comes to job applicants.

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Summary: reed in Brief

A 'reed' [riːd] can refer to a tall, slender-leaved plant that grows in water or on marshy ground, or a thin strip of material used for weaving or plaiting items. It can also refer to a musical instrument made from a reed, such as a mouth organ or clarinet. Examples include 'The pond was full of reeds and lily pads.' and 'He played a tune on his reed flute.'

How do native speakers use this expression?