Definition

Describing something that is delicate or sensitive, often because it has been nurtured in a controlled, warm environment.

Example

The hothouse flowers were more vibrant than those grown outside.

Conversation

I think her ideas are really hothouse — they seem so delicate and well thought out.

Absolutely, they have that unique touch that makes them stand out.

Yeah, it's like they were nurtured in a special environment.

Exactly! That kind of creativity is hard to find.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A greenhouse that is kept warm to help plants grow, especially those that need a lot of heat.

Example

The gardener decided to use a hothouse to grow tropical flowers during the winter.

Conversation

Have you ever seen a real hothouse?

Yeah, my uncle has one in his backyard for his orchids.

That sounds amazing! I bet the plants thrive in that kind of environment.

Definition

To grow plants in a warm, controlled environment that promotes their growth, often using a greenhouse-like structure.

Example

The gardener decided to hothouse the delicate flowers to protect them from the cold weather.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Have you ever thought about how to hothouse your plants for better growth?

I’ve heard it can really help, especially with vegetables.

Yeah, I want to try hothousing some tomatoes this season.

Root Explanation

Hothouse → The word is formed from "hot" (from Old English *hat*, meaning having a high temperature) and "house" (from Old English *hus*, meaning a dwelling or shelter). A hothouse is a house or structure designed to maintain a hot environment, typically for growing plants.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'hot' environment where plants are kept in a 'house' — that's what a hothouse is.

Visually Confused Words