Hemlock: meaning, definitions and examples

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hemlock

 

[ ˈhɛm.lɒk ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

toxic plant

Hemlock is a poisonous flowering plant belonging to the Apiaceae family. It is well known for its toxic properties and can cause respiratory failure when ingested. The plant has fern-like leaves and clusters of small white flowers.

Synonyms

Conium maculatum, poison hemlock, spotted hemlock

Examples of usage

  • The hemlock plants were found growing in the damp meadow.
  • The ancient Greeks used hemlock as a method of execution.
  • In folklore, hemlock is often associated with death.
  • It is crucial to identify hemlock correctly to avoid poisoning.
  • Some writers reference hemlock in discussions about natural toxins.
Context #2 | Noun

historical poison

In historical contexts, hemlock refers to a potent poison derived from the plant, which was famously used in the execution of Socrates. Its toxic principle, coniine, affects the nervous system, leading to paralysis and death.

Synonyms

fatal toxin, lethal poison

Examples of usage

  • Socrates was sentenced to death by hemlock in ancient Athens.
  • The hemlock used in the trial was meticulously prepared by his accusers.
  • Literary references often describe the chilling effects of hemlock.
  • The use of hemlock highlights the themes of justice in Greek philosophy.
  • Discussions of hemlock often reflect on morality and ethics.

Translations

Translations of the word "hemlock" in other languages:

🇵🇹 cicuta

🇮🇳 हैमलॉक

🇩🇪 Schierling

🇮🇩 cicuta

🇺🇦 гемлок

🇵🇱 hemlok

🇯🇵 ヘムロック

🇫🇷 ciguë

🇪🇸 cicuta

🇹🇷 hemlok

🇰🇷 헴록

🇸🇦 هملوك

🇨🇿 blín

🇸🇰 hemlok

🇨🇳 毒芹

🇸🇮 hemlok

🇮🇸 hemlokkur

🇰🇿 гемлок

🇬🇪 ჰემლოკი

🇦🇿 hemlok

🇲🇽 cicuta

Word origin

The term 'hemlock' comes from the Old English word 'hæmloc', which refers specifically to the poisonous plant. The etymology may trace back to the Proto-Germanic root '*hamlą', meaning 'branch or limb', which relates to the plant's characteristic appearance. This name has evolved through various forms in Middle English, such as 'hamlo' or 'hamlac'. Hemlock has been a significant part of cultural discussions surrounding poison and mortality, notably in Ancient Greece with its connection to the philosopher Socrates. The plant itself is native to Europe and parts of Asia and has been documented for centuries due to its toxic properties.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,806, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.