How Do You Spell SARSAPARILLA?

Pronunciation: [sˌɑːsɐpɐɹˈɪlə] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "sarsaparilla" can be tricky to some due to the silent letters included in the word. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is spelled /sɑːrsəˈpærɪlə/. The "sar-" sound is pronounced as /sɑːr/ with emphasis on the first syllable, followed by the silent letter "s" before the stressed syllable "-sa-". The "-pa-" is pronounced as /pə/ with a schwa sound while the "-rilla" is pronounced as /ˈrɪlə/ with a silent "a" and emphasis on the last syllable.

SARSAPARILLA Meaning and Definition

1. Sarsaparilla refers to a woody, climbing vine known scientifically as Smilax ornata, which is commonly found in tropical regions such as South America, the Caribbean, and parts of Asia. It belongs to the family Smilacaceae and is known for its distinctive root, which is the primary component of the plant used for various purposes.

   In a culinary context, sarsaparilla is used to refer to a flavoring extract derived from the root of the plant. With a sweet, spicy, and slightly vanilla-like taste, this extract is often used to add depth and complexity to beverages, such as root beer or sarsaparilla soda.

   In traditional medicine and herbal remedies, sarsaparilla has been used for centuries due to its potential health benefits. The root is believed to possess anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and diuretic properties. It has been used as a blood purifier, digestive aid, and a tonic for skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis.

   Furthermore, sarsaparilla has historical usage as a remedy for syphilis, as it was believed to have anti-venereal properties. However, its effectiveness against this sexually transmitted infection has not been scientifically proven.

   Overall, sarsaparilla is a plant with a long history of use in culinary and traditional medicine practices. While it is renowned for its unique flavor, its medicinal properties should be explored with caution and under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional.

2. Sarsae radix, the dried root of Smilax medica and other species of S., a thorny vine widely distributed throughout the tropical and semitropical world. It has been largely employed in gout, rheumatism, and syphilis, and popularly as a "blood purifier," in doses of gr. 15-30 (1.0-2.0) usually in some fluid preparation.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

3. The root of a plant of the W. and E. Indies and S. Amer., highly valued for its medicinal qualities.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for SARSAPARILLA *

• sasparilla 100%

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for SARSAPARILLA

• aarsaparilla
• zarsaparilla
• xarsaparilla
• darsaparilla
• earsaparilla
• warsaparilla
• szrsaparilla
• ssrsaparilla
• swrsaparilla
• sqrsaparilla
• saesaparilla
• sadsaparilla
• safsaparilla
• satsaparilla
• sa5saparilla
• sa4saparilla
• saraaparilla
• sarzaparilla
• sarasparilla
• sarspaarilla
• sersaparilla

Etymology of SARSAPARILLA

The word sarsaparilla comes from the Spanish term zarzaparilla, which is derived from the Spanish word zarza meaning bramble or shrub and parilla meaning little grape vine. The term was likely influenced by the Spanish explorers who encountered and named the plant while exploring the Americas. Eventually, the word made its way into English and became sarsaparilla.

Plural form of SARSAPARILLA is SARSAPARILLAS