sphagnum - Meaning, Image, Examples & Etymology - Learn English Visually

sphagnum

|sphag-num|

/ˈsfæɡnəm/

peat moss; bog moss

Etymology

Etymology Information

'sphagnum' originates from Neo-Latin 'Sphagnum', ultimately from Greek 'σφάγνος' (sphagnos), where 'sphagnos' meant 'bog-moss'.

Historical Evolution

'sphagnum' changed from the Greek word 'sphagnos' into Neo-Latin 'Sphagnum' and was adopted into modern English as 'sphagnum'.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'bog-moss', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a genus of peat moss and the peat material derived from it'.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

any moss of the genus Sphagnum; a bog or peat-forming moss that commonly forms dense mats in wetlands.

Sphagnum forms dense mats that help create and maintain peat bogs.

Synonyms

Noun 2

the dried or processed material from Sphagnum moss used as peat, a soil conditioner, or packing material (often called peat moss).

Gardeners sometimes use sphagnum as a soil conditioner and to retain moisture in pots.

Synonyms

Examples

Last updated: 2026/01/15 23:24