# hemp

/ˈhɛmp/ (US) · /hˈɛmp/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/hemp
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. the plant and its fibres

noun · CEFR B2

a tall plant used to make strong rope, paper, and clothing.

For teachers: the industrial variety of the Cannabis sativa plant, primarily harvested for its durable bast fibres and seeds.

- The designer chose hemp fabric because it is more sustainable than cotton.
- Historically, hemp was the primary material for maritime ropes and sails due to its exceptional tensile strength and resistance to rot.

Usage: Uncountable when referring to the material; countable when referring to the botanical species.

### 2. the drug

noun · CEFR B2 · Informal · Slang

a drug made from the dried leaves and flowers of the cannabis plant.

For teachers: a psychoactive drug derived from the cannabis plant; often used as a synonym for marijuana or cannabis.

- In some countries, the possession of hemp is strictly prohibited by law.
- The debate over the legalisation of hemp for medicinal purposes has gained significant traction in recent legislative sessions.

Teaching tip: While 'hemp' usually refers to industrial use today, in older or slang contexts it often refers to the drug.

## Examples

- The company makes strong bags out of hemp.
- Farmers are increasingly planting hemp because it requires less water than cotton and can be used for sustainable textiles.
- While historically prized for maritime ropes and sails, industrial hemp is now being integrated into modern construction materials like insulation and carbon-negative concrete alternatives.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.