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Potpourri: meaning, definitions and examples

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potpourri

 

[ˌpoʊ.pʊˈri ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

fragrance

A mixture of dried petals and spices placed in a bowl or small sack to perfume clothing or a room.

Synonyms

blend, medley, mixture.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
potpourri

Used when referring to a mixture of dried flowers and spices used for fragrance, or a collection of different things, usually related to culture or arts.

  • 1
  • She has a potpourri of classical music records
  • 2
  • The living room smelled wonderful due to the potpourri in the bowl
mixture

General term for any combination of different entities, be it substances, ingredients, or ideas. It has a broad use.

  • 1
  • The cake recipe called for a mixture of flour, sugar, and eggs
  • 2
  • The painting is a mixture of different styles
blend

Appropriate when talking about a mix of two or more substances together smoothly, often referring to food, drinks, or abstract concepts.

  • 1
  • The coffee is a unique blend of Arabica and Robusta
  • 2
  • The festival had a blend of modern and traditional dances
medley

Typically used for a mixed selection that maintains the individuality of its components, often related to a varied collection of music or sports events.

  • 1
  • The band played a medley of classic rock songs
  • 2
  • The event featured a medley of swimming and running competitions

Examples of usage

  • Her room was filled with the sweet smell of potpourri.
  • The potpourri in the bowl on the table added a lovely fragrance to the room.
Context #2 | Noun

variety

A miscellaneous collection of things.

Synonyms

assortment, diversity, selection.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
potpourri

Use this word to describe a mixture of different things, often random or unrelated, and not necessarily in a positive sense.

  • The book is a potpourri of essays, poems, and short stories.
  • His speech was a potpourri of random thoughts and anecdotes.
assortment

This word is often used when referring to a variety of different items grouped together, particularly in a retail or collection context.

  • The store offers an assortment of candies and chocolates.
  • She received an assortment of gifts on her birthday.
selection

Use this word when referring to a group of chosen items, often indicating a choice process or variety available for choosing.

  • The menu offers a selection of over 50 dishes.
  • He was impressed by the wine selection at the restaurant.
diversity

Typically used to refer to a range of different characteristics within a group, particularly in terms of demographics, ideas, or ecosystems.

  • The company prides itself on its diversity and inclusion policies.
  • The rainforest is known for its incredible biodiversity.

Examples of usage

  • The event was a potpourri of music, dance, and art.
  • The magazine features a potpourri of articles on various topics.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the French term 'pot pourri,' which means 'rotten pot,' originally referring to a dish made from a mix of leftovers.
  • In 18th-century France, the term evolved to describe a fragrant mixture, as herbs and flowers were often added to the pot to enhance the smell.

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, potpourri is used not only as a fragrant blend but also as a decorative element in homes, especially during festive seasons.
  • Traditionally, potpourri was associated with hospitality, as a pleasant aroma in the home was seen as a welcoming gesture.

Aromatherapy

  • Certain dried plants used in potpourri, like lavender and rosemary, are believed to have calming effects and can help reduce stress.
  • Using potpourri in your living space can also mask unpleasant odors, making it a popular choice for freshening up homes.

DIY and Crafting

  • Many people enjoy making their own potpourri by combining various dried flowers, spices, and essential oils, personalizing the scent to their taste.
  • Crafting homemade potpourri is a fun activity that can be done with kids, allowing for creativity and the development of sensory skills.

Literature & Art

  • In literature, the concept of potpourri can refer to a collection of various works or styles, much like a mixed anthology of stories or poems.
  • Artists have used the term to describe artworks that blend various styles and elements, creating a unique and eclectic masterpiece.

Translations

Translations of the word "potpourri" in other languages:

🇵🇹 potpourri

🇮🇳 पोटपौरी

🇩🇪 Potpourri

🇮🇩 potpourri

🇺🇦 попурі

🇵🇱 potpourri

🇯🇵 ポプリ

🇫🇷 pot-pourri

🇪🇸 potpourri

🇹🇷 potpuri

🇰🇷 포푸리

🇸🇦 بوري

🇨🇿 potpourri

🇸🇰 potpourri

🇨🇳 百花香

🇸🇮 potpourri

🇮🇸 potpourri

🇰🇿 попурри

🇬🇪 პოპური

🇦🇿 potpourri

🇲🇽 potpourri

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,931 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.