The correct spelling of the word commonly known as "marigold" is actually "marygold". Its IPA phonetic transcription is /ˈmærɪɡoʊld/. This spelling originates from the Latin phrase "solis oculi" which means "eyes of the sun." Over time, this phrase was corrupted to "marygold" in English. The incorrect spelling "marigold" likely originated from a mishearing or misreading of the original Latin phrase. Nonetheless, the inaccurate spelling has become so common that it is now accepted as a variant spelling.
Marygold is a noun referring to a flowering plant that belongs to the genus Calendula, which is native to southwestern Asia and the Mediterranean region. Scientifically known as Calendula officinalis, Marygold is commonly cultivated in gardens for its bright yellow or orange flowers. It is an annual plant that reaches a height of around 1 to 2 feet (30 to 60 centimeters) and has a bushy appearance.
The flowers of the Marygold plant are characterized by their distinctive appearance, featuring numerous delicate petals radiating from a central disk. They have a daisy-like structure and are known for their vibrant colors, providing a visual spectacle in various landscapes and gardens. In addition to their aesthetic value, Marygold flowers have been used for centuries for their medicinal properties. The petals of the Marygold plant are often dried and used in traditional herbal remedies, including ointments, teas, and tinctures, due to their antibacterial and anti-inflammatory qualities.
The term "marygold" is derived from the Old English words "mary," meaning virgin or maiden, and "gold," referring to the golden color of the flower's petals. The name reflects both the plant's vibrant appearance and its historical association with the virgin Mary, as it was often used in religious ceremonies and festivals dedicated to her. Additionally, Marygold has found its place in folklore and cultural traditions, symbolizing love, grace, and protection against evil.
The word marigold is derived from the Middle English term marygold, which originated from the Old English word meargealla or meargealla-geolu. This Old English term can be broken down into meargealla, meaning marigold, and geolu, which means yellow. The combination of these words in Old English signifies the yellow color of the flower, which led to its modern term marigold.