Thistledown: meaning, definitions and examples
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thistledown
[ ˈθɪsəlˌdaʊn ]
plant structure
Thistledown refers to the feathery, silky, and light seed or tuft of certain thistle plants, particularly the common thistle. It is often blown by the wind, which aids in the dispersal of seeds. The fluffy nature of thistledown makes it a popular choice for decoration and in crafts due to its ethereal appearance. Ecologically, thistledown plays a significant role in providing food and habitat for certain insects and birds.
Synonyms
downy seed, seed fluff, thistle tuft.
Examples of usage
- The thistledown floated gracefully across the meadow.
- Children love to blow the thistledown and watch it scatter.
- In art class, we used thistledown to create a nature-inspired collage.
Translations
Translations of the word "thistledown" in other languages:
🇵🇹 pêlos de cardo
🇮🇳 थिस्टलडाउन
🇩🇪 Distelwolle
🇮🇩 bulu thistle
🇺🇦 кропив'яне волокно
🇵🇱 puch ostuńca
🇯🇵 アザミの綿
🇫🇷 duvet de chardon
🇪🇸 pluma de cardo
🇹🇷 devedikeni tüyü
🇰🇷 엉겅퀴 솜털
🇸🇦 صوف الشوك
🇨🇿 bodláková vlna
🇸🇰 bodliaková vlna
🇨🇳 蓟绒
🇸🇮 dlaka osat
🇮🇸 krókódíl
🇰🇿 бұталы жүн
🇬🇪 მარცვლოვანი ბალახი
🇦🇿 kardos yun
🇲🇽 pluma de cardo
Etymology
The word 'thistledown' is a compound derived from the words 'thistle' and 'down.' 'Thistle' comes from the Old English 'cýsile,' which further traces back to the Proto-Germanic '*kunsō,' referring to various prickly plants. The addition of 'down' derives from the Old English 'dūn,' which translates to soft hair or downy feathers. Historically, thistles have been associated with various cultural meanings, including resilience and protection. The ability of thistledown to float and travel great distances has made it a subject of interest in the study of plant reproduction and ecology. Over time, the word has maintained its botanical roots while also becoming intertwined with cultural elements, emphasizing the beauty and delicacy of nature.