jasmine
UK[ˈdʒæzmɪn]US[ˈdʒæzmɪn]
n
a climbing plant with sweet-smelling white or yellow flowers
n
the flowers of the jasmine plant, used to make tea or perfume
Etymology
the word 'jasmine' entered english in the mid-16th century from french jasmin, which itself was borrowed from arabic yāsamīn. the arabic term traces back to persian yāsamīn, ultimately derived from a middle persian source. the name of the flower has traveled along trade routes, carried with the plant's fragrance and cultural significance, from ancient persia through the islamic world and into european languages, retaining its phonetic core and referent throughout its journey.
Analysis
this word is a loanword adopted as a simplex unit. it does not contain separable morphemes within modern english spelling.
Examples
the scent of night-blooming jasmine filled the evening air.
she prefers jasmine tea for its delicate floral aroma.
a trellis covered with jasmine grew against the garden wall.