Hazel Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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hazel

[หˆheษช.zษ™l ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

type of tree

Hazel refers to a genus of deciduous trees and shrubs known as Corylus, commonly found in temperate regions. The most well-known species is the common hazel, which produces edible nuts called hazelnuts. These trees typically have smooth, gray bark and round, serrated leaves. The hazel tree is often associated with folklore and is noted for its traditional uses in witch hazel extract and in making wands. They thrive in moist, well-drained soils and can grow up to 20 feet tall.

Synonyms

Corylus, hazelnut tree.

Examples of usage

  • The hazel tree produced a rich harvest of nuts this year.
  • We noticed a hazel grove while hiking in the national park.
  • Hazel wood is often used in making furniture.
  • The hazel leaves turn beautiful colors in the fall.
Context #2 | Noun

color descriptor

Hazel also refers to a color that is commonly described as a mixture of brown and green, resembling the color of hazel tree leaves or the hazelnut shell. It is often used to describe eye color, where hazel eyes exhibit a blend of green, gold, and brown tones. This color can change depending on the light and the surrounding colors, giving it a unique and dynamic quality.

Synonyms

brownish-green, golden brown.

Examples of usage

  • Her eyes were a striking hazel that changed with the seasons.
  • The walls were painted a soft hazel that complemented the decor.
  • He wore a hazel jacket that perfectly matched his eyes.
  • The landscape was full of rich hazel hues.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Botany

  • Hazel trees are often deciduous, meaning they lose their leaves in winter, which helps them grow in spring.
  • They produce nuts that are rich in nutrients and are commonly used in baking and confectionery.
  • The leaves of the hazel tree are heart-shaped, adding to their aesthetic appeal in gardens.

Pop Culture

  • Hazel has been popular in literature, often symbolizing wisdom and protection.
  • The character Hazel Grace Lancaster from the novel 'The Fault in Our Stars' has brought renewed attention to the name and its meanings.
  • In film, hazel eyes are frequently depicted as enchanting, captivating, or mysterious.

Cultural Significance

  • In various cultures, hazel trees are considered sacred. The Celts, for example, viewed them as symbols of knowledge and special insight.
  • Hazelnuts are often associated with fertility and abundance, making them significant in harvest festivals.
  • In folklore, hazel rods were believed to have magical properties, particularly in finding water.

Art and Craft

  • The wood of hazel trees is commonly used to make walking sticks and whips due to its toughness and flexibility.
  • In art, the warm tones of hazel wood are appreciated for creating rustic furniture and decorative items.
  • Hazel branches are also popular in basket-making, showcasing their versatility.

Origin of 'hazel'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'hazel' comes from the Old English 'hรฆsel', which referred to both the tree and its nuts.
  • The name has roots in the Proto-Germanic word 'haizalaz', linking it to the common features of the tree.
  • Hazel trees are one of the oldest cultivated plants in Europe, dating back thousands of years.

The word 'hazel' has its origins in Old English 'hรฆsel,' which is akin to Old High German 'hasala' and Latin 'corylus,' referring to the hazel tree. The term has been used in English since the 8th century to describe both the tree and its nuts. The connection to the color date back to the Middle Ages when the term began to also describe the shades seen in hazelnuts and leaves. The hazel tree has held cultural significance throughout history, often associated with wisdom and protection in folklore. Its nuts have been utilized in various culinary dishes and remedies, further embedding 'hazel' in the vocabulary of herbalism and gastronomy.


Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,275, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.