Bulrush: meaning, definitions and examples

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bulrush

[ˈbʊlrʌʃ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

plant

A tall reed-like plant with a soft, spongy stem, growing in marshy or wet areas.

Synonyms

cattail, papyrus, reed, rush.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
bulrush	Often used in British English to describe water-side plants that grow in wetlands and marshes. The bulrushes swayed gently in the wind along the riverbank. Birds often nest in bulrushes.
reed	Generic term for any tall, grass-like plants found in wetlands. It can also be used in various specific contexts such as music (reed instruments). Reeds are plentiful in the pond during summer. The sound of a reed instrument added a unique tone to the performance.
cattail	Commonly used in American English to describe tall, reed-like plants with brown, fuzzy flower spikes, typically found in marshy areas. The children played hide and seek among the cattails. Cattails are a common sight in North American wetlands.
papyrus	Refers to a type of plant historically significant for making paper in ancient Egypt. Modern usage can still denote this specific plant, often in historical or botanical discussions. Ancient Egyptians used papyrus to make scrolls. Papyrus plants lined the banks of the Nile River.
rush	Another general term for water-loving plants, but it can also mean 'to hurry' in different contexts. As a plant, it is often used more broadly than strictly biological contexts. The shallow waters were filled with rushes. He had to rush to the store before it closed.

Examples of usage

The bulrushes along the river bank swayed gently in the breeze.
The bulrushes provided habitat for various bird species.
The bulrush is commonly found in wetlands and swampy areas.
The bulrushes were used by ancient civilizations for making baskets and mats.
The bulrush is an important part of the ecosystem in marshy regions.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

biblical reference

A symbol of humility and servitude, often used metaphorically in literature.

Synonyms

metaphor for servitude, symbol of humility.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
bulrush	It can also be a symbolic term in literature or folklore, referencing the famous biblical story of Moses being hidden among the bulrushes. The child was laid gently in a basket and placed among the bulrushes.
symbol of humility	This expression is often used in philosophical, ethical, or religious discussions to describe actions, behaviors, or symbols that represent modesty and a lack of arrogance. The monk's simple lifestyle was a living symbol of humility. In many cultures, the lotus flower is seen as a symbol of humility and purity.
metaphor for servitude	This phrase is often used in literary or rhetorical contexts to describe a situation where someone is in a state of submission or service to another, often unwillingly. It has a negative connotation. He described his job as a metaphor for servitude, draining his energy and freedom. The novel paints the protagonist's life as a metaphor for servitude, trapped in an endless cycle of menial tasks.

Word

Description / Examples

bulrush

It can also be a symbolic term in literature or folklore, referencing the famous biblical story of Moses being hidden among the bulrushes.

The child was laid gently in a basket and placed among the bulrushes.

symbol of humility

This expression is often used in philosophical, ethical, or religious discussions to describe actions, behaviors, or symbols that represent modesty and a lack of arrogance.

The monk's simple lifestyle was a living symbol of humility.
In many cultures, the lotus flower is seen as a symbol of humility and purity.

metaphor for servitude

This phrase is often used in literary or rhetorical contexts to describe a situation where someone is in a state of submission or service to another, often unwillingly. It has a negative connotation.

He described his job as a metaphor for servitude, draining his energy and freedom.
The novel paints the protagonist's life as a metaphor for servitude, trapped in an endless cycle of menial tasks.

Examples of usage

The character's actions were likened to a bulrush, bending in the wind of authority.
She stood tall like a bulrush, unyielding in the face of adversity.
His demeanor was as gentle as a bulrush, always putting others before himself.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'bulrush' comes from Old English 'būlreose', with 'būl' meaning 'bulky' and 'reose' referring to rushes or reeds.
It has been used in English literature since the 14th century, showing its long-standing presence in the language.

Botany

Bulrushes belong to the family Cyperaceae, which includes sedges and other grass-like plants.
These plants are not only important for wildlife but also play a vital role in wetland ecosystems by preventing erosion.
Different species of bulrush can grow up to 10 feet tall, making them a prominent feature in their habitats.

Cultural Significance

In ancient Egypt, bulrushes were used to make papyrus, an early form of paper.
They are often mentioned in folklore as shelters for small creatures, symbolizing safety and refuge.

Ecology

Bulrushes provide habitat for fish, birds, and insects, making them essential for biodiversity.
They help filter water in wetlands, which can improve water quality by trapping pollutants and sediment.

Arts and Literature

Bulrushes often appear in poetry and songs, symbolizing the beauty and serenity of wetland landscapes.
In children's literature, they are frequently depicted as natural homes for adventurous creatures hiding from dangers.

Translations

Translations of the word "bulrush" in other languages:

🇵🇹 taboa

🇮🇳 सरकंडा

🇩🇪 Rohrkolben

🇮🇩 bambu air

🇺🇦 очерет

🇵🇱 pałka wodna

🇯🇵 ガマ

🇫🇷 jonc

🇪🇸 junco

🇹🇷 kamış

🇰🇷 부들

🇸🇦 قصب

🇨🇿 rákos

🇸🇰 trstina

🇨🇳 蒲草

🇸🇮 trst

🇮🇸 star

🇰🇿 қамыс

🇬🇪 ბურღი

🇦🇿 qamış

🇲🇽 junco

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #34,073 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

...
34070 hyped
34071 unrevealed
34072 lexeme
34073 bulrush
34074 rocketing
34075 irreducibly
34076 fakir
...