Kew

American  

[kyoo] / kyu /

noun

1. a part of Richmond, in Greater London, England: famous botanical gardens KewGardens.

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Kew British  

/ kjuː /

noun

1. part of the Greater London borough of Richmond-upon-Thames, on the River Thames: famous for Kew Gardens (the Royal Botanic Gardens), established in 1759 and given to the nation in 1841

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Etymology

Origin of Kew

First recorded in 1310–50; Middle English Cayho; from Old French (Picardy) kay, kai “sand bank, landing place, wharf, quay” and Old English hōh “spur of land shaped like a heel” (formed there by a bend in the Thames)

Example Sentences

The United Kingdom's Met Office weather agency said Monday saw record highs of 34.8C at Kew Gardens, southwest London -- a full two degrees above the previous high.

From Barron's • May 26, 2026

The UK has recorded its hottest-ever May temperature as the mercury rose to 34.8C in Kew Gardens in south-west London.

From BBC • May 25, 2026

In the UK, the Met Office weather agency said it was the hottest May day on record, with temperatures hitting 34.8C at Kew Gardens, southwest London -- a full two degrees above the previous high.

From Barron's • May 25, 2026

The largest-ever outdoor exhibition of work by the world-renowned artist Henry Moore has gone on display at Kew Gardens.

From BBC • May 9, 2026

We turned the corner at Kew Gardens Drive just as the sun was setting.

From "Tangerine" by Edward Bloor