Definition

A machine used to separate grain from plants, or a type of large shark known for its long tail that it uses to strike the water.

Example

The farmer used a thresher to harvest the wheat efficiently.

Conversation

Did you see that documentary about the giant thresher sharks?

Yeah, those sharks are incredible!

I was amazed by how they use their tails to hunt.

I know, right? It's like they're performing a dance on the water's surface!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

**Thresher** → The word 'thresher' comes from the Old English 'þrescan' (meaning to thrash or beat) and the suffix '-er' (meaning a person who). A thresher is a person or machine that beats grain to separate it from the chaff.

Memory Tip

Think of someone 'beating' ('þrescan') grain to separate it — that's why a thresher is someone who does this work.

Visually Confused Words