Frangipani Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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frangipani
[ˌfræn.dʒɪˈpɑː.ni ]
Definition
flowering plant
Frangipani is a tropical flowering plant known for its fragrant and colorful blooms. It is often associated with tropical and subtropical regions, and the flowers are commonly used in leis and other decorative arrangements.
Synonyms
lei flower, plumeria.
Examples of usage
- The frangipani tree fills the garden with its sweet fragrance.
- She wore a beautiful frangipani flower behind her ear.
- Frangipani is popular in tropical landscaping.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- In Hawaii, frangipani flowers are made into leis, which are symbols of love and friendship.
- In several Asian cultures, these flowers are associated with love and devotion, often used in wedding ceremonies.
- In some Pacific cultures, wearing a frangipani blossom behind the ear can indicate one's relationship status.
Health and Medicinal Uses
- Traditionally, frangipani leaves have been used in folk medicine for their potential antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.
- The milky sap from the frangipani can be applied to the skin for certain ailments, although care should be taken as it can be irritating.
- In some cultures, teas made from frangipani parts are believed to have calming effects.
Botanical Features
- Frangipani trees can grow up to 10 feet tall and are known for their thick, waxy leaves.
- They produce clusters of flowers that can bloom in various colors, including white, yellow, pink, and red.
- These flowers typically bloom in the warm seasons and are famous for attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies.
Pop Culture
- Frangipani often appears in tropical-themed art and decorations, celebrated for its beauty and vibrant colors.
- In music and literature, this flower frequently symbolizes love, beauty, and the enchanting aspects of nature.
- The fragrance of frangipani has inspired numerous perfume creations, making it a popular scent in the cosmetic industry.
Origin of 'frangipani'
Main points about word origin
- The name 'frangipani' comes from an Italian nobleman, Frangipani, who created a scent that resembled the flower's fragrance.
- Originally, the flower was called 'plumeria', named after Charles Plumier, a French botanist who discovered it in the 17th century.
- In different languages, the flower has unique names, such as 'tembakau' in Indonesia and 'lei flowers' in Hawaii.
The term 'frangipani' has its origins in the 17th century, named after an Italian nobleman, Giulio Frangipani, who developed a scent often made from the flowers. The plant has been used in various cultures for its beauty and fragrance, especially in tropical areas. Frangipani belongs to the genus Plumeria, which shares its name with Charles Plumier, a French botanist who first described the plant in the 18th century. The flowers are culturally significant in many places, symbolizing different meanings such as love, beauty, and immortality in places like Hawaii and Bali. As a result of extensive cultivation and selective breeding, several species and hybrid varieties of frangipani exist today, each showcasing a different color and scent profile, making the flower widely popular among gardeners and florists in tropical regions.