Eglantine Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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eglantine

[หˆษ›ษกlษ™ntaษชn ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

botanical term

Eglantine refers to a wild rose, particularly the sweetbrier or eglantine rose (Rosa rubiginosa), known for its fragrant flowers and thorny stems. This plant is commonly found in Europe and can be recognized by its distinctive pink to white blooms and pleasant scent.

Synonyms

sweetbrier, wild rose.

Examples of usage

  • The garden was filled with eglantine, giving off a sweet fragrance.
  • We noticed an eglantine bush while hiking through the forest.
  • The eglantine's flowers attract a variety of pollinators.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Botanical Characteristics

  • Eglantine is known for its bright pink or white flowers that bloom in the summer, attracting bees and butterflies.
  • The plant can grow in clay, sandy, or loamy soils, showcasing its versatility in various environments.
  • Its leaves are typically glossy and can change colors in the fall, adding beauty to the landscape.

Cultural Significance

  • Eglantine has been celebrated in poetry and literature, often symbolizing beauty and nature's resilience.
  • In medieval times, the flowers were used in decorations and as an ingredient in herbal remedies.

Folk Medicine

  • Traditionally, the plant has been used to soothe ailments like coughs and digestive issues.
  • Some cultures view eglantine as a symbol of protection, believing that the thorns can ward off evil spirits.

Pop Culture

  • In Shakespeare's 'A Midsummer Night's Dream', eglantine is mentioned, further embedding it in English literature.
  • Eglantine has inspired various works of art and design, often featured in floral patterns and decorative motifs.

Origin of 'eglantine'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old French 'รฉglantine', which means 'wild rose'.
  • The Latin term 'aculeatus' translates to 'thorny', referencing the plant's spiky features.

The term 'eglantine' originates from the Middle English word 'eglantine,' which itself comes from the Old French 'รฉglantine,' derived from the Latin 'acclฤซmantฤซna' that refers to a type of rose. The Latin root is connected to the word 'aculeus,' meaning thorn, indicating the thorny nature of the eglantine plant. This word has been in use since the late 14th century, reflecting the plant's longstanding presence in European flora and its association with beauty and nature. Eglantine has also been referenced in various literary works throughout history, symbolizing love and the natural world.


Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,927, 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.