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Nasturtium Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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nasturtium

[næsˈtɜrʃəm ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

botanical term

Nasturtium is a genus of flowering plants in the family Tropaeolaceae, commonly known for their colorful and vibrant flowers. These plants are often grown for ornamental purposes but also have culinary uses. The leaves and flowers are edible and have a peppery flavor, often used in salads. Nasturtiums can be cultivated in various climates and are known for their ability to attract pollinators such as bees. They are also regarded as companion plants in gardens, helping to deter certain pests.

Synonyms

Indian Cress, Nasturtium officinale, Tropaeolum.

Examples of usage

  • I added nasturtium leaves to my salad for a spicy kick.
  • The garden was filled with bright nasturtium flowers.
  • We planted nasturtiums next to our tomatoes to keep aphids away.

Translations

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

Origin of 'nasturtium'

The word 'nasturtium' originates from the Latin 'nasturtium', which is derived from 'nasus' (nose) and 'turtum' (to twist), alluding to the plant's peppery taste that may cause a tingling sensation in the nose. The plant was first identified in the early 17th century and has since been cultivated in gardens for both aesthetic and culinary purposes. Nasturtiums are native to South America, particularly Peru and Brazil, where indigenous peoples used the leaves and flowers in their diets. The species 'Tropaeolum majus' is perhaps the most well-known variety, cultivated extensively across Europe and North America. Over centuries, the appeal of nasturtiums has made them popular in ornamental gardening and sustainable agriculture, noted for their vibrant colors and beneficial properties.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #36,641, 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.