jewelweed
UK[ˈdʒuːəlwiːd]US[ˈdʒuːəlwiːd]
n
a plant of the impatiens family, typically having orange or yellow flowers and seed pods that burst open when touched.
n
any of several plants of the genus impatiens, especially those with watery sap used to soothe skin irritations.
Morpheme Breakdown
jewel
weed
jewel
weed
Etymology
the name 'jewelweed' is a compound formed from two english words, 'jewel' and 'weed'. it is a descriptive folk name, likely coined by english speakers in north america. the 'jewel' component refers to the visual appearance of the plant's dewdrop-like water droplets or its bright, jewel-toned flowers. the 'weed' component reflects its common, often invasive, growth habit in damp, shady areas. thus, the term literally means a 'jewel-like weed,' capturing both its aesthetic appeal and its status as a widespread, uncultivated plant.
Analysis
Structure: jewel + weed
jewel (from old french 'jouel', meaning a precious ornament) + weed (from old english 'wēod', meaning a herb or plant, often one growing where not wanted).
Examples
the orange jewelweed grew in dense patches along the shaded creek bank.
many hikers use the sap from jewelweed to relieve the itch from poison ivy.
the children were delighted by the way the ripe jewelweed pods exploded at a touch.