Asphodel: meaning, definitions and examples

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asphodel

 

[ as-fuh-del ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

plant, mythology

Asphodel is a type of perennial plant belonging to the family Asphodelaceae. It is commonly found in the Mediterranean region and is recognized for its tall spikes of white or yellow flowers. In Greek mythology, asphodels were thought to grow in the fields of Hades and were associated with the afterlife. The plant has a long history of cultivation and has been used for various purposes, including ornamental gardening and traditional medicine.

Synonyms

asphodelus, flower, herb

Examples of usage

  • The asphodel blooms beautifully in late spring.
  • In ancient times, asphodel fields symbolized the afterlife.
  • She planted asphodels in her garden for their unique beauty.

Translations

Translations of the word "asphodel" in other languages:

🇵🇹 asfódelo

🇮🇳 अस्फोडेल

🇩🇪 Asphodel

🇮🇩 asfodel

🇺🇦 асфодел

🇵🇱 asfodel

🇯🇵 アスフォデル

🇫🇷 asphodèle

🇪🇸 asfódel

🇹🇷 asfodel

🇰🇷 아스포델

🇸🇦 أسفوديل

🇨🇿 asfodel

🇸🇰 asfodel

🇨🇳 阿斯福德尔

🇸🇮 asfodel

🇮🇸 asfódel

🇰🇿 асфодел

🇬🇪 ასფოდელი

🇦🇿 asfodel

🇲🇽 asfódel

Etymology

The word 'asphodel' derives from the Latin 'asphodelus', which in turn comes from the ancient Greek word 'ἀσφόδελος' (asphódelos). The roots of the name are thought to relate to the plant's pale flowers that bloom in the wild. Historically, asphodels have been prominent in various cultures, particularly in Ancient Greece, where they were associated with the dead and the afterlife. Asphodels have been depicted in art and literature, solidifying their connection to mortality. They have been cultivated since ancient times, serving not only aesthetic purposes in gardens but also having uses in traditional medicine and culinary applications. The cultural significance of asphodel has persisted through ages, making it a symbol of the eternal and the transient nature of life.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,386, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.