Seaweed Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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seaweed
[ˈsiːˌwiːd ]
Definition
marine plants
Seaweed is a type of marine algae that grows in the ocean or other bodies of water. It can vary greatly in size, shape, and color, including green, brown, and red varieties. Seaweed is an important part of marine ecosystems, providing food and habitat for various marine organisms. Additionally, it has numerous uses in human society, including in culinary practices, cosmetics, and as a source of biofuel. Many cultures, especially in East Asia, have a long tradition of using seaweed in their cooking.
Synonyms
algae, kelp, marine plant, sea vegetable.
Examples of usage
- Sushi often includes seaweed as a wrapping.
- Some types of seaweed are used in soups.
- Seaweed provides essential nutrients for marine life.
- She added seaweed to her salad for extra flavor.
- The scientist studied the growth patterns of various seaweed.
Translations
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Origin of 'seaweed'
The word 'seaweed' is derived from the combination of 'sea', which comes from the Old English term 'sǣ', meaning 'sea' or 'ocean', and 'weed', derived from the Old English 'wēde', which means 'plant' or 'herb'. The term has been used in English since at least the 14th century, where 'weed' referred generally to undesirable plants but has since expanded to include various aquatic plants and algae. Seaweed has been utilized by humans for centuries in various cultures, notably in Asian cuisine, where it is known as 'nori', 'kombu', and 'wakame', reflecting its importance not only as food but also in traditional medicine and agriculture. The ecological role of seaweed has also gained recognition, particularly regarding its ability to absorb carbon dioxide and provide habitat for marine life, emphasizing its environmental significance.