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Aquilegia Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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aquilegia

[ˌakwəˈlɪdʒə ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

plant genus

Aquilegia, commonly known as columbine, is a genus of flowering plants in the family Ranunculaceae. They are known for their distinctive spurred petals and attractive, bell-shaped flowers, which can come in various colors including blue, purple, red, and yellow. These plants are typically found in temperate regions and are popular in gardens due to their beauty and ability to attract pollinators.

Synonyms

catchfly, columbine, granny's bonnet.

Examples of usage

  • The garden was filled with colorful aquilegia blooming in the spring.
  • I planted aquilegia to attract hummingbirds to my yard.
  • Aquilegia is often used in traditional herbal medicine.
  • The unique shape of aquilegia flowers makes them a favorite among gardeners.
  • During the flower show, aquilegia took center stage with its vibrant hues.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Botanical Characteristics

  • Aquilegia features distinctive spurred petals, which may attract specific pollinators, especially hummingbirds.
  • Some species can thrive at high altitudes, showcasing their adaptability to different environments.

Cultural Significance

  • The flower holds various meanings across cultures, representing themes like faith and courage in the language of flowers.
  • In medieval times, aquilegia was believed to have protective properties and was often planted in gardens for good luck.

Pop Culture

  • Aquilegia has made its appearance in various works of art, symbolizing beauty and fragility.
  • The flower has been featured in literature and poetry, often representing a delicate yet strong nature.

Habitat

  • Aquilegia species can be found in a variety of environments, from woodlands to mountainous regions, highlighting their ecological versatility.
  • They are native to temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere, particularly lovely in spring gardens.

Origin of 'aquilegia'

Main points about word origin

  • The name comes from the Latin word 'aquilegium', meaning 'water gatherer', referring to the flower's unique shape that collects rain.
  • The flower is also known as 'columbine', derived from the Latin 'columba', meaning dove, due to the flower's shape resembling a cluster of doves.

The word 'aquilegia' is derived from the Latin 'aquila', meaning 'eagle', which refers to the spurred petals of the flowers that resemble the claws of an eagle. The name reflects the characteristic shape of the plant's blooms and was first used in the 16th century in Europe. Members of the Aquilegia genus are distributed across the world, with many species originating from North America and Eurasia. These plants have a rich history in gardens, valued not only for their ornamental qualities but also for their adaptability to different environments. Cultural references to aquilegia can be found in various parts of Europe, where it is celebrated for its beauty and versatility in garden design.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #42,772, this word is among the least frequently used in common English. Understanding it can be beneficial for comprehensive language mastery, but it's not essential for most learners.