bonsai
UK[ˈbɒn.saɪ]US[ˈboʊn.saɪ]
n
the art of growing ornamental, artificially dwarfed trees or shrubs in small, shallow pots.
n
a tree or shrub grown by this method.
Etymology
the english word 'bonsai' is a direct borrowing from japanese, where it is written as 盆栽. the japanese term itself is a compound of two chinese-derived elements: 'bon' (盆), meaning a tray or shallow pot, and 'sai' (栽), meaning planting or cultivation. the art form originated in china over a thousand years ago as 'penzai' before being adopted and refined by japanese culture. entering english in the early 20th century, the word retained its original japanese pronunciation and spelling, referring specifically to the meticulous horticultural practice of miniaturizing trees.
Analysis
the word is a simplex loanword from japanese. it is not segmented into meaningful morphemes within the english spelling system.
Examples
the carefully pruned pine was a magnificent example of bonsai.
he has dedicated years to mastering the art of bonsai.
the exhibition featured bonsai ranging from decades-old junipers to young maples.