Maidenhair: meaning, definitions and examples

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maidenhair

 

[ ˈmeɪdənˌhɛr ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

plant type

Maidenhair refers to a type of fern belonging to the family Adiantaceae. These ferns are characterized by their delicate, fan-shaped leaves and blackish stalks. They thrive in moist, shady environments and are often found in temperate regions. Maidenhair ferns are popular in gardens and as houseplants due to their attractive foliage.

Synonyms

adiantum, fern, shade plant

Examples of usage

  • The maidenhair fern adds a touch of elegance to indoor spaces.
  • In the forest, we spotted a cluster of maidenhair ferns near the stream.
  • Many gardeners prefer maidenhair for their shade gardens.
  • The delicate nature of maidenhair leaves requires careful watering.

Translations

Translations of the word "maidenhair" in other languages:

🇵🇹 helecho virgen

🇮🇳 कन्या बाल

🇩🇪 Jungfernhaar

🇮🇩 rambut perawan

🇺🇦 перепутник дівочий

🇵🇱 włoski dziewicze

🇯🇵 メイドンヘア

🇫🇷 cheveux de vierge

🇪🇸 helecho virgen

🇹🇷 bakire saçı

🇰🇷 처녀 머리

🇸🇦 شعر العذراء

🇨🇿 panna vlasy

🇸🇰 panenské vlasy

🇨🇳 少女发

🇸🇮 devica lasje

🇮🇸 meyjarhár

🇰🇿 қыз баланың шашы

🇬🇪 ქალწულა თმა

🇦🇿 qız saç

🇲🇽 cabello de doncella

Etymology

The term 'maidenhair' originates from the Old English word 'maiden', meaning young girl or maiden, and 'hair', which refers to the fine, delicate texture of the fern's leaves. This name may have been used to liken the light, airy foliage of these ferns to the lush hair of a young maiden. Also, in classical gardening references, these ferns were often associated with purity and grace, further enhancing the connection to the imagery of a maiden. The genus name, Adiantum, itself derives from the Greek word 'adiantos', which means 'unwettable', referring to the leaves' ability to shed water. Today, maidenhair ferns are a beloved part of many botanical collections and are often used in landscaping and floral arrangements, highlighting their enduring appeal.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,328, 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.