vegetal
|veg-e-tal|
/ˈvɛdʒɪtəl/
relating to plants; plant-like
Etymology
'vegetal' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'vegetalis', where the root 'veget-' meant 'lively' or 'vigorous'.
'vegetalis' passed into Old/Middle French as 'végétal' and was borrowed into English (modern form 'vegetal') via French influence in the early modern period.
Initially it meant 'lively' or 'vivifying' (from the idea of life or growth), but over time it shifted to the more specific sense of 'relating to plants' used today.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a plant or vegetable (rare, chiefly technical or literary use).
The botanist cataloged several vegetals collected from the field.
Synonyms
Adjective 1
relating to plants or plant life; characteristic of vegetation.
The marsh has a distinct vegetal scent in early summer.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/09/12 12:55