scythe (noun) [pronounce: saith] – a tool (see picture) with a long rounded blade, used for cutting grass or grain

Scary, right? I mean the scythe, not the woman of course.

And here are two verbs for things you can do with a scythe:

1. mow (verb) – cut grass

mowing (noun) – cutting the grass

2. reap (verb) – harvest, most usually of grain (= cut it)

reaper (noun) – a person who reaps

Note: The grim reaper is Death in the shape of an old man or a skeleton with a long black robe and carrying a scythe. Like so:

By the way, grim means depressing or cruel.

Here are some examples of how you can use scythe, mow and reap:

Farmers used to handle scythes before machines took over the mowing of grass for hay.

Anyone ready to mow our lawn?

The grass in the park smells so wonderful and fresh after mowing.

When the wheat is golden-yellow you know it’s time to reap.

The children were looking for left-over potatoes after the farmer reaped the field.

On old Mrs Bates’ walk through the dark wood, the grim reaper swiftly but steadily following her.