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Mayflower Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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mayflower

[ˈmeɪflaʊər ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

historical ship

The Mayflower was a historic ship that transported the Pilgrims from England to the New World in 1620. It is famous for carrying the Separatists who sought religious freedom and is a symbol of the early colonial period of America. The journey of the Mayflower was significant as it led to the establishment of Plymouth Colony. The ship's voyage symbolized hope, freedom, and exploration for many of its passengers.

Synonyms

boat, ship, vessel.

Examples of usage

  • The Mayflower landed at Plymouth Rock.
  • Many Thanksgiving traditions trace back to the Mayflower.
  • The passengers of the Mayflower signed the Mayflower Compact.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Context

  • The Mayflower was also the name of the ship that transported the Pilgrims to America in 1620, linking the word to historical significance.
  • The name symbolizes hope and new beginnings, much like the flower that blooms in spring after a cold winter.

Cultural Significance

  • In some cultures, mayflowers are celebrated as a symbol of renewal and the arrival of warmer days.
  • Lilies of the valley, often associated with May, are considered good luck flowers and appear in various springtime festivals.

Botanical Facts

  • The mayflower is known for its delicate white or pink flowers and is often one of the first plants to bloom in spring.
  • These flowers thrive in well-drained soil and are commonly found in woodland areas in North America.

Pop Culture

  • The Mayflower ship's journey is a pivotal moment in American history, often depicted in movies and children’s books.
  • Many schools celebrate Thanksgiving by teaching about the Pilgrims and the Mayflower, linking this historical event to gratitude.

Origin of 'mayflower'

Main points about word origin

  • The name originates from Old English, where 'may' refers to the month and 'flower' signifies a blooming plant.
  • It's commonly associated with a variety known as Epigaea repens, which is often called the trailing arbutus.

The name 'Mayflower' is derived from the flower of the same name, which is associated with spring and renewal. The ship itself was originally a cargo ship before its famous journey in 1620. It played a pivotal role in American history as it was part of the first wave of European settlement in New England. The Pilgrims, who were a group of English Puritans, chartered the Mayflower seeking a new life where they could practice their religion freely. The journey became emblematic of the pursuit of freedom and the challenges faced by those who sought a new beginning in a foreign land. The Mayflower's legacy was cemented in American culture with the annual Thanksgiving festivities that commemorate the Pilgrims' survival in the new world.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #41,948, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.