n. & adj.
--n.
1. a strong coarse sacking made of hemp or jute.
2 (Hessian) a native of Hesse in Germany.
--adj. (Hessian) of or concerning Hesse.
Phrases and idioms:
Hessian boot a tasselled high boot first worn by Hessian troops. Hessian fly a midge, Mayetiola destructor, whose larva destroys growing wheat (thought to have been brought to America by Hessian troops).
Etymology: Hesse in Germany