Farmer

Definition

A farmer is a person engaged in agriculture, responsible for cultivating crops, raising livestock, or both. Farmers play a vital role in producing food and other agricultural products necessary for human sustenance and economic activity.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈfɑːrmər/
• Respelling: FAR-mər

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈfɑːmə/
• Respelling: FAH-muh

Etymology

The word "farmer" originates from the Old French term "fermier," meaning "a lessee of a farm," derived from the Latin "firmarius," based on "firma," meaning "a fixed payment." It evolved in Middle English to refer to someone who rents agricultural land and eventually to anyone engaged in farming.

Derivatives

• Farming (noun/verb)
• Farmstead (noun)
• Farmland (noun)
• Farmerly (adjective, archaic)
• Farmhand (noun)

Synonyms

• Agriculturist
• Planter
• Grower

Antonyms

• Nonagriculturalist
• Urbanite
• Industrialist

Usage

The term "farmer" is used to describe individuals engaged in agriculture, whether on a small or large scale. For example, "The farmer harvested wheat before the rain," or "Farmers are essential to global food security."

Related Terms

• Agriculture: The practice of cultivating soil, growing crops, and raising livestock.
• Farm: A plot of land used for agricultural activities.
• Rancher: A person specializing in raising livestock.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A person engaged in agriculture: Refers to individuals involved in growing crops or raising animals for food, fiber, or other products.
  • Example: "The farmer tended to the cornfields at dawn."
• An operator or manager of a farm: Refers to the one overseeing agricultural production and maintenance of farm operations.
  • Example: "As the lead farmer, she implemented sustainable practices."