Evergreen Meaning and Definition

Ancient Evergreen

Evergreen

Pronunciation

/ˈɛvərgɹiːn/

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A type of plant that keeps its leaves year-round and typically grows in a wide range of environments, often associated with evergreen trees or forests. It can also refer to a person or thing that remains active or prosperous throughout the year.

Examples

  • The evergreen forests provided a natural habitat for the local wildlife.
  • She is known as an evergreen in the business world, always finding new opportunities.

Synonyms

  • Perennial
  • Hardy
  • Indestructible

Antonyms

  • Annual
  • Metaphysical
  • Fleeting

Etymology

The word ‘Evergreen’ originated from the combination of ‘ever’ and ‘green’, describing the type of plant that retains its green foliage throughout the year. This term has been used in English since the 14th century, influenced by Old English and Latin roots.

Usage Notes

When using the term ‘Evergreen’, it’s essential to consider the context. In horticulture, ‘Evergreen’ refers to the type of plant that keeps its leaves year-round. In other contexts, ‘Evergreen’ can describe a person or thing that remains active or prosperous throughout the year. Care should be taken to avoid confusion in conversations.

Cultural References

The term ‘Evergreen’ has appeared in various forms of media, including literature and music. For example, ‘Evergreen’ is the title of a famous song by Barbra Streisand, released in 1971. In literature, ‘Evergreen’ has been used as a symbol of eternal life and renewal.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

  • ‘Evergreen tree’ – a symbol of longevity and resilience.
  • ‘Evergreen forest’ – a natural environment that remains unchanged.

Related Words or Phrases

  • Perennial
  • Annual
  • Seasonal

Collocations

  • ‘Evergreen forest’
  • ‘Evergreen tree’
  • ‘Evergreen plant’

Frequency of Use

The word ‘Evergreen’ is commonly used in horticulture and everyday conversations. It’s an essential term to understand the ecosystem and environments that remain unchanged throughout the year.

Common Misspellings

  • ‘Everbreen’
  • ‘Evergreenn’
  • ‘Evergreeen’

Etymology

The word ‘Evergreen’ has undergone a significant evolution in meaning and usage over time, and has undergone various transformations in form and grammar from its origins in the English language. However, the Old English and Latin roots behind it have remained largely unchanged.

Citations

OED (2019) Oxford English Dictionary. Oxford University Press. Also etymonline and wikipeida.

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