Everything about Cane totally explained
» For similar words and other spellings and meanings, see Cane (disambiguation).
A
cane is a long, straight wooden stick, generally of
bamboo, Malacca (
rattan) or some similar plant, mainly used as a support, such as a
walking stick, or as an instrument of
punishment. Depending on the use, it's left in its natural state or improved (for example, smoothened, varnished).
Walking stick
Around the
17th or
18th century, the cane took over for the
sword as an essential part of the
European gentleman's
wardrobe, used primarily as a
walking stick. In addition to its value as a decorative accessory, the cane also continued to fulfill some of the function of the sword as a weapon. The standard cane was
rattan (especially Malacca) with a rounded metal grip. The clouded cane, as in the quotation below, was made of Malacca and showed the patina of age:
» :
Sir Plume, of amber snuff-box justly vain,
:
And the nice conduct of a clouded cane. » :::- Alexander Pope, The Rape of the Lock
Some canes had specially weighted metalwork. Other types of wood, such as
hickory, are equally suitable.
Origins
Walking sticks started out as a necessary tool for the shepherd and traveler. A nice hefty stick was an excellent way to protect against thieves and to keep animals in line. Over time, the walking stick gradually began to be known as a symbol for power and strength, and eventually authority and social prestige. Rulers of many cultures, past and present, have carried some form of walking stick or staff. (See more at
Ceremonial mace)
In the United States, presidents have often carried canes and received them as gifts. The Smithsonian has a cane given to
George Washington by
Ben Franklin. It features a gold handle in the shape of a
Phrygian cap. In our time, walking sticks are usually only seen with formal attire. Collectors of canes look for the old, the new and the novel (such as canes made from the penises of bison or bulls). Canes with hidden features such as hidden compartments, pool sticks, and sword canes are popular among collectors. Handles have been made from many substances, both natural and man-made. Carved and decorated canes have turned the functional into the fantastic.
Some canes, known as "Tippling Canes", or "Tipplers", have hollowed out compartments near the top where
flasks or
vials of
alcohol can be hidden and sprung out on demand.
When used as a mobility or stability aide, canes are generally used in the hand opposite the injury or weakness. This may appear counter-intuitive, but this allows the cane to used for stability in a way that lets the user shift much of their weight onto the cane and away from their weaker side as they walk. Personal preference, or a need to hold the cane in their dominant hand means some cane users choose to hold the cane on their injured side.
Uses as verb
The verb
to cane means to use a cane, but can also be a positive attribute applied to an action to imply enthusiasm for example "I caned it!" (both transitive) or be used intransitively in modern English
slang to express causing pain (for example "Ah, that canes!")
Cane is sometimes used to describe
furniture made of
wicker.
Further Information
Get more info on 'Cane'.
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