Shrubbery Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ณ
shrubbery
[หสrสbษri ]
Definition
in the garden
A shrubbery is a collection of shrubs or small bushes planted together in a garden or park. It is often used to add greenery, color, and texture to outdoor spaces.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| shrubbery |
A collection of shrubs planted together, especially in a more formal garden setting.
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| bushes |
Refers to individual or grouped woody plants that are smaller than trees; commonly used in everyday language.
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| greenery |
General term for green plants or parts of plants, often used to describe decorations or the presence of plants in a broader sense.
|
| foliage |
Describes the leaves of plants collectively, often used when discussing the aesthetic or environmental aspects.
|
Examples of usage
- The landscaper designed a beautiful shrubbery for the front yard.
- We need to trim the shrubbery to keep it tidy and neat.
- The shrubbery provides privacy and a natural barrier from the street.
- The variety of plants in the shrubbery attracts birds and butterflies.
- Watering the shrubbery regularly will help it thrive and grow.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Gardening & Landscaping
- Shrubberies are popular in gardens for creating borders and adding layers to landscaping.
- They can serve practical purposes, such as providing privacy, acting as windbreaks, or attracting wildlife like birds and butterflies.
- Different types of shrubs can produce flowers, fruits, and foliage that change with the seasons, adding color all year round.
Cultural References
- In popular culture, especially in British humor, 'shrubbery' was hilariously depicted in the film 'Monty Python and the Holy Grail' as a silly request for knights.
- Gardening shows often showcase shrubbery to demonstrate landscaping techniques and garden design ideas.
- Historically, certain shrubs were used in herbal medicine and folklore, making them significant in various cultures.
Environmental Importance
- Shrubs play a critical role in ecosystems, aiding in soil stabilization and preventing erosion.
- They provide habitats for various wildlife, serving as nesting places and food sources.
- Urban shrubbery can help improve air quality and reduce urban heat, contributing to eco-friendly city planning.
Origin of 'shrubbery'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'shrub' comes from Old English 'shruppa,' meaning 'a plant that grows low to the ground.'
- It entered the English language during the 14th century, evolving to include all sorts of woody plants.
- The suffix '-ery' often indicates a place associated with the root word, as in 'dairy' for milk production.
The word 'shrubbery' originated from the Middle English word 'shrubbry', which was derived from the Old French word 'chouberie'. The term refers to a collection of shrubs or small bushes planted together, commonly used in gardens and parks for landscaping purposes. Shrubberies have been a popular feature in English gardens since the Victorian era, adding beauty and diversity to outdoor spaces.