Meanings
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1
noun
a rigid circular or curved band of metal, wood, or another material, used for holding, fastening, hanging, or forming a framework
The cooper tightened each iron hoop around the barrel.
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2
noun
historical clothing: a light circular framework used to hold a skirt away from the body
The petticoat's whalebone hoops held the skirt away from her legs.
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3
noun
the circular rim and attached net through which a basketball is thrown
The ball struck the hoop and dropped through the net.
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4
verb
to bind, encircle, or reinforce something with a hoop
The cooper hooped the cask with sturdy iron bands.
Thesaurus
Etymology
From Middle English hoop or hoope, probably from Old English hop in compounds for circular objects and from a Germanic base associated with bending or arching. The basic ring sense developed specialized uses in barrel-making, clothing, games, and sports.