Sapling: meaning, definitions and examples

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sapling

[ˈsæplɪŋ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

young tree

A sapling is a young tree, especially one with a slender trunk.

Synonyms

seedling, shoot, young tree.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
sapling	Used to describe a young tree, generally stronger and older than a seedling. Often used in forestry or gardening contexts. The forest ranger planted a sapling to replace the tree that was cut down. After two years, the oak sapling had grown considerably.
young tree	A general term used to refer to trees that have not yet reached maturity. It's less specific and can be used in everyday language. The young tree will need support until its roots strengthen. They planted young trees along the new pathway.
seedling	Refers to a very young plant or tree that has just started to grow from a seed. Commonly used in gardening and horticulture. She bought tomato seedlings for her home garden. The seedlings need plenty of sunlight and water.
shoot	Describes a new growth from a plant, not specifically a tree, and can also refer to the early stages of growth. Often used in general botanical contexts. New shoots appeared on the rose bush after pruning. The plant produces shoots that can be re-planted.

Examples of usage

The forest was full of saplings waiting to grow into tall trees.
She carefully planted the sapling in her backyard.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

inexperienced person

Informally, a sapling can also refer to a young or inexperienced person.

Examples of usage

He is just a sapling in the field of finance.
She was a sapling in the world of politics.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'sapling' comes from the Old English 'sæpling', which reflects its meaning of a young tree.
'Sap' in 'sapling' refers to the vital fluid in plants that helps them grow.
Historically, the term has been used in English since the 14th century, showcasing its long presence in language.

Ecology

Saplings play a crucial role in forest regeneration, often following disturbances like fires or logging.
They contribute to biodiversity by providing habitat and food for various wildlife.
Young trees absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, helping to combat climate change.

Agriculture

Saplings are often nurtured in nurseries before being transplanted for farming or landscaping.
Grafted saplings can produce fruit more quickly than those grown from seeds, making them popular in orchards.
Tree care during the sapling stage includes watering, pruning, and protection from pests to ensure healthy growth.

Literature

In many cultures, saplings symbolize growth, new beginnings, and the hope for the future in literature.
Writers such as J.R.R. Tolkien have used the imagery of young trees to represent resilience and renewal in storytelling.
The metaphor of a sapling is often used to describe young, developing characters in novels.

Cultural Significance

In various cultures, planting a sapling is often associated with rituals for life transitions, such as weddings or births.
International Arbor Day is celebrated to encourage planting trees, where saplings take center stage.
Bonsai artists create miniature versions of saplings to demonstrate patience, skill, and the beauty of nature.

Translations

Translations of the word "sapling" in other languages:

🇵🇹 muda

🇮🇳 पौधा

🇩🇪 Setzling

🇮🇩 bibit

🇺🇦 саджанець

🇵🇱 sadzonka

🇯🇵 苗木 (なえぎ)

🇫🇷 jeune arbre

🇪🇸 plántula

🇹🇷 fidan

🇰🇷 묘목

🇸🇦 شتلة

🇨🇿 sazenice

🇸🇰 sadenica

🇨🇳 树苗 (shùmiáo)

🇸🇮 sadika

🇮🇸 plöntur

🇰🇿 көшет

🇬🇪 ნერგი

🇦🇿 fidan

🇲🇽 plántula

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,066, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.

...
25063 smattering
25064 remoter
25065 alb
25066 sapling
25067 profiteering
25068 obstetrician
25069 manorial
...