HESSIAN (2)

hessian (2). Hessian, a. relating to Hesse Cassel

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Hes″sian, n. 1. 1. A native or inhabitant of Hesse.
2. 2. A mercenary or venal person.
☞ This use is a relic of the patriot hatred of the Hessian mercenaries who served with the British troops in the Revolutionary War. 3. 3. pl. See Hessian boots and cloth, under Hessian, a.