I. ˈheshən, chiefly Brit ˈhesēən adjective
Usage: usually capitalized
Etymology: Hesse, region or state in southwestern Germany + English -ian
: of or relating to Hesse in Germany or the Hessians
II. noun
( -s )
1. capitalized
a. : a native of Hesse, a region or state in southwestern Germany
b. : a German mercenary often a native of Hesse serving in the British forces during the American Revolution
c. : a mercenary soldier
2.
a. : hessian boot
b. : hessian andiron
3. chiefly Midland
a. : scamp , rascal — used especially of a child
b. : a troublesome or meddlesome person — used especially of a woman
4. also hessian cloth : burlap