Sunflower Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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sunflower
[หsสnหflaสษr ]
Definition
plant type
A sunflower is a tall, bright yellow flower that turns to face the sun as it moves across the sky. Known scientifically as Helianthus annuus, it is cultivated primarily for its seeds and oil. Sunflowers are also appreciated for their ornamental value in gardens.
Synonyms
Helianthus, sun bloom.
Examples of usage
- The sunflower in my garden is blooming beautifully.
- We planted sunflowers to attract bees and butterflies.
- He took a picture of a field full of sunflowers.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- Sunflowers are often associated with happiness and positivity due to their bright color and resemblance to the sun.
- In art, sunflowers have been a popular subject; Vincent van Gogh painted a famous series of sunflower still lifes.
Botanical Characteristics
- Sunflowers can grow as tall as 12 feet, with large flower heads up to a foot wide.
- They are known for their unique ability to turn their heads to follow the sun throughout the day, a phenomenon called heliotropism.
Nutritional Facts
- The seeds from sunflowers are a healthy snack, rich in vitamins E and B, and contain high levels of good fats.
- Sunflower oil, extracted from the seeds, is a popular cooking oil and is known for its health benefits.
Environmental Impact
- Sunflowers can help clean up contaminated soil through a process called phytoremediation, absorbing toxins.
- They provide food for various wildlife, including birds, bees, and other insects, contributing to local ecosystems.
Origin of 'sunflower'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'helianthus', combining 'helios' meaning sun and 'anthos' meaning flower.
- In Old English, sunflowers were referred to as 'sunnendaege', which translates to 'sun's day flower'.
The word 'sunflower' comes from the Middle English 'soneflour', which itself is derived from the Old English 'sunneflลwe'. The term 'sun' refers to the plant's behavior of turning its flower head to face the sun, a phenomenon known as heliotropism. The sunflower's association with the sun can be traced back to ancient civilizations, particularly among the indigenous peoples of the Americas who revered this plant as a symbol of sustenance and energy. The sunflower was domesticated around 1000 B.C., primarily by the Native Americans. They used its seeds for food, its oil for cooking and its stalks for making fibres. Over time, sunflowers were introduced to Europe in the 16th century, where they gained popularity for their striking appearance and versatility. Today, sunflowers are a common sight in fields, gardens, and agricultural lands across the globe, symbolizing warmth and positivity.