How Do You Spell SAXIFRAGE?

Pronunciation: [sˈaksɪfɹɪd͡ʒ] (IPA)

Saxifrage is a botanical term that refers to a group of plants with small, delicate flowers. The correct spelling of this word may seem daunting, but it follows a simple pattern once you break it down phonetically. The word is pronounced /ˈsæksɪˌfrædʒ/ - SACK-si-fradj - with the emphasis on the first syllable. The "x" in saxifrage is pronounced as a "ks" sound, while the "f" and "r" are pronounced separately. Once you know these elements, the spelling of saxifrage becomes a bit easier to remember.

SAXIFRAGE Meaning and Definition

1. Saxifrage is a noun that refers to a flowering plant belonging to the Saxifragaceae family, known for its ability to grow in crevices of rocks and walls. The word "saxifrage" originates from the Latin words "saxum" meaning rock and "frangere" meaning to break, indicating its ability to break rocks and establish itself in seemingly inhospitable environments.

   The saxifrage plant typically has small, star-shaped or bell-shaped flowers and fleshy leaves. It is characterized by its hardiness and adaptability, often found in mountainous regions with harsh climates or in areas with poor soil drainage. One of the most well-known species of saxifrage is the London Pride (Saxifraga x urbium), which features clusters of pink flowers.

   In addition to its ornamental value in gardens, saxifrage has also been used in traditional medicine. It is believed to possess various healing properties, particularly for treating urinary or digestive ailments. The roots of certain species have been used in herbal remedies to alleviate conditions such as kidney stones and promote overall well-being.

   Furthermore, the term "saxifrage" is sometimes used metaphorically to describe something or someone that overcomes obstacles or difficulties with ease. This usage is derived from the plant's ability to grow in challenging conditions, symbolizing resilience and tenacity.

2. A plant of the genus Saxifraga, several species of which formerly enjoyed repute as solvents of urinary calculi.

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

3. A plant or medicine supposed to have the power of dissolving stone in the bladder; a species of plants, natives of alpine regions.

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

Common Misspellings for SAXIFRAGE

• aaxifrage
• zaxifrage
• xaxifrage
• daxifrage
• eaxifrage
• waxifrage
• szxifrage
• ssxifrage
• swxifrage
• sqxifrage
• sazifrage
• sacifrage
• sadifrage
• sasifrage
• saxufrage
• saxjfrage
• saxkfrage
• saxfrage
• saxifrege
• Saxifarag
• Saixifrag
• Saxifragaae
• Saxifragaee
• Saxfragea
• saxafrege

Etymology of SAXIFRAGE

The word "saxifrage" is derived from Latin and has its roots in two parts: "saxum" and "frangere".

1. "Saxum" means "rock" in Latin, referring to the rocky habitat where many saxifrage plants are found. It comes from the Proto-Indo-European root *ḱak-' or *ḱeḱ- meaning "stone" or "rock".

2. "Frangere" means "to break" in Latin. It comes from the Proto-Indo-European root *bʰreg- meaning "to break".

Together, these roots form "saxifrage", which literally means "rock-breaker". This name is attributed to the plant's fondness for growing in rocky crevices and its ability to thrive in such challenging environments.

Similar spelling words for SAXIFRAGE

• sassafras,
• saxifraga.

Plural form of SAXIFRAGE is SAXIFRAGES