käsnu

Käsnu is a term that can refer to a few different things, primarily related to a type of agricultural tool and a small settlement. In its most common agricultural context, a käsnu is a wooden hand tool used for threshing grain. It typically consists of a sturdy handle and a broader, flattened head, often made of hardwood. The user would swing the käsnu to strike the harvested grain stalks, separating the edible kernels from the husks and straw. This method was a traditional way of processing grain before the advent of more modern machinery.

The term käsnu can also denote a small, rural settlement or a hamlet, particularly in certain regions. These settlements are usually characterized by a few scattered dwellings and perhaps a small communal area. The exact size and nature of a place referred to as a käsnu can vary depending on local dialect and historical context. It often implies a close-knit community with strong ties to the surrounding agricultural land. The origin of the word is likely tied to the tool itself, perhaps originating from the idea of a small, compact place.