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hone

Elementary (A2)

IPA: /hoʊn/

KK: /hoʊn/

intransitive verb
Definition

To have a strong desire or longing for something.


Example

She began to hone for her childhood home after many years away.


Tense Forms

Past: honed

Past Participle: honed


Conversation
Sloth A
I really miss hanging out with you.
Sloth B
Yeah, I hone for those days too.
Sloth A
We should plan something soon, like a movie night.
Sloth B
Definitely! I can't wait to catch up.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
long
crave
whine
Antonyms
disdain
reject
spurn
noun
Definition

A type of stone used to sharpen the edge of a cutting tool, making it very sharp.


Example

The chef used a hone to sharpen his knives before cooking.


Conversation
Sloth A
I need to buy a new hone for my kitchen knives.
Sloth B
Oh, really? I thought you had a good one already.
Sloth A
I did, but it got worn out after so much use.
Sloth B
transitive verb
Definition

To improve or refine a skill or ability over time, or to make something sharper, especially a blade.


Example

He honed his skills as a musician through years of practice.


Tense Forms

Past: honed

Past Participle: honed


Conversation
Sloth A
I've been trying to hone my cooking skills lately.
Sloth B
Oh really? What dishes are you working on?
Sloth A
I've focused on making pasta from scratch to really hone my technique.
Sloth B
Root Explanation

Hone → The word originates from Old English 'hanian', meaning to make sharp or to sharpen. It refers to the act of sharpening a blade or improving a skill.

Memory Tip

Think of the Old English word for sharpening — that's why 'hone' means to make something sharp or to improve it.

Visually Confused Words
whone
thone
shone
phone
one
hon
hoe
throne
Is this page helpful?
That makes sense. A good hone is essential for keeping them sharp!

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
whetstone
grinder
sharpener
Antonyms
dull
blunt
ineffective
That's awesome! Fresh pasta is the best.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
refine
enhance
improve
Antonyms
dull
blunt
weaken