verb
hew
To follow a rule or course closely.
The committee hews to its original plan despite mounting criticism.
Etymology
The course-following sense developed from hewing to a line. Just as a cut follows its guide, conduct can hew closely to a rule or prescribed course.
More examples
- The film hews closely to the novel's plot.
- Our team hewed to the safety guidelines throughout the project.
- She has always hewn to a strict personal code.
Forms
hew · hews · hewed · hewn · hewing