Sage Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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sage
[seɪdʒ ]
Definitions
herb
An aromatic plant with grayish-green leaves that are used as a culinary herb, native to southern Europe and the Mediterranean.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| sage |
Use to refer to the plant, often used as a herb in cooking or medicine.
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| herb |
Use to refer to any plant with leaves, seeds, or flowers used for flavoring, food, medicine, or perfume.
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| salvia |
Use to refer to the plant in a more scientific or botanical context, often when discussing different species within this genus.
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Examples of usage
- She added a pinch of sage to the soup for extra flavor.
- Sage is commonly used in stuffing for Thanksgiving turkey.
wise person
A profoundly wise person, especially one who is venerated for their wisdom and experience.
Synonyms
philosopher, wise man.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| sage |
Use this word to refer to someone known for their profound wisdom and judgment, often in a historical or mythical context.
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| wise man |
Applicable in everyday situations to describe individuals who provide valuable advice based on experience and deep understanding.
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| philosopher |
Refer to a philosopher when talking about someone who studies fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, values, reason, and mind.
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Examples of usage
- The village sage was sought after for advice by all the residents.
- He was known as a sage in the field of philosophy.
wise
Having, showing, or indicating profound wisdom.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| sage |
Used to describe someone who is profoundly wise, often with deep insight gained from experience. This word often has a positive, respectful connotation and is used in formal contexts.
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| wise |
Often used in general contexts to describe someone who makes sound judgments and decisions based on understanding and good sense. It generally has a positive connotation.
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| knowledgeable |
Describes someone who is well-informed or has a lot of information about a particular subject. It is commonly used in professional or educational contexts.
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Examples of usage
- His sage advice helped me make the right decision.
- The sage old man shared his wisdom with the younger generation.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Culinary Uses
- Sage is a popular herb in cooking, known for its strong flavor and often used in dishes like sausages and stuffing.
- The culinary use of sage dates back to the Roman Empire, where it was prized for its flavor and medicinal properties.
- Many cultures celebrate sage in their cooking, from Italian to Mediterranean, showcasing its versatility.
Cultural References
- In various cultures, sages are depicted as teachers or mentors, symbolizing the passing of knowledge through generations.
- Sage characters often appear in literature and film as guides or wise crones, aiding heroes in their journeys.
- In many Native American traditions, sage is considered sacred and used in cleansing rituals and ceremonies.
Psychology
- Sages are often associated with the archetype of the 'Wise Old Man' in psychology, representing experience and insight.
- Experiential learning emphasizes the importance of gaining knowledge over time, much like that of a sage figure.
- Wisdom is linked to emotional intelligence, where sages use both knowledge and empathy to make sound decisions.
Literature
- In literature, sage characters often serve as mentors, like Gandalf in 'The Lord of the Rings,' guiding the protagonist.
- Works of philosophy frequently reference sages as embodiments of wisdom, influencing modern thought and inquiry.
- From fables to fairy tales, wise characters symbolize the idea that learning from life experiences is invaluable.
Origin of 'sage'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'sage' comes from the Latin word 'sapiens,' meaning wise or discerning.
- In Old French, 'sage' meant wise, reflecting its use in modern contexts today.
- Ancient Greeks also valued wisdom, as seen in their philosophy emphasizing knowledge as a virtue.
The word 'sage' originated from the Latin word 'salvia', which means 'to heal' or 'to save'. Historically, sage has been used for its medicinal properties and as a symbol of wisdom. In ancient times, sage was believed to have mystical powers and was associated with longevity, wisdom, and protection. It has been used in various cultures for its culinary, medicinal, and ceremonial purposes.