Hew/hjuː/ Definition 1 of 3Pro Tip 1/3Physical Action Used when describing a physical action requiring effort and strength, often outdoors. Farmers hewed a new path through the bushes. Pro Tip 2/3Historical Use Historically linked to woodcutting and carving, evoking a sense of tradition and manual labor. Villagers would hew firewood before winter set in. Pro Tip 3/3Violent Connotations Can imply a violent or forceful action when used metaphorically. The general hewed a path of destruction through the enemy lines.