maidenhair
|maid-en-hair|
B2
🇺🇸
/ˈmeɪdənˌhɛr/
🇬🇧
/ˈmeɪdənˌheə/
delicate fern
Etymology
Etymology Information
'maidenhair' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'maydenhayr', where 'mayden' meant 'young woman' and 'hayr' meant 'hair'.
Historical Evolution
'maydenhayr' transformed into the modern English word 'maidenhair'.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it referred to the delicate appearance of the fern's leaves, resembling a young woman's hair, and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a type of fern with delicate, fan-shaped leaves, often used in ornamental gardening.
The maidenhair fern is popular for its graceful appearance.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/05/15 03:02