OASTS Meaning and
Definition
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The term "oasts" refers to tall, conical-shaped kilns or structures used in the traditional malting process. Typically made of brick or stone, oasts were used for drying and curing hops during the production of beer. Originally developed in medieval England, they played a fundamental role in the brewing industry.
Oasts typically consisted of two or more interconnected structures. The lower part of the oast, called the "stowage," was a large room where harvested hops were spread out on a kiln floor and heated. Above the stowage, a chimney-like structure called the "kiln" rose upwards. The kiln featured a domed roof and ventilation vents called "cowls" at the top, designed to expel moisture and regulate temperature. The cowls could be rotated to control the draft and prevent the hops from overheating.
The purpose of oasts was to dry the hops before they could be used for brewing. The kiln's gentle heat would remove the moisture, preserve the flavor, and prevent the growth of mold or bacteria. Oasts were particularly common in regions known for hop cultivation, such as Kent in southeastern England.
While modern brewing techniques utilize more advanced drying methods, oasts remain iconic symbols of traditional beer production. Many oast houses have been preserved and converted into homes or museums, serving as reminders of this historic aspect of brewing heritage.
Common Misspellings for OASTS
- osts
- oaes
- oats
- ostes
- oastes
- 9asts
- oas5s
- ioasts
- okasts
- 0oasts
- o0asts
- 9oasts
- o9asts
- ozasts
- oazsts
- oassts
- owasts
- oawsts
- oqasts
- oaqsts
Etymology of OASTS
The word "oasts" is derived from the Middle English word "hoste", which came from the Old English word "hāst" or "hāst". The term originally meant a kiln or furnace used for drying or roasting grains, especially in the process of malting barley for beer production. The word further evolved to "oast" in Old English and eventually to "oasts" in Modern English.
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