How Do You Spell SPEEDWELL?

Pronunciation: [spˈiːdwɛl] (IPA)

The word "speedwell" is spelled with the IPA phonetic transcription /spidwɛl/. The first syllable is pronounced with the consonant cluster "sp" followed by the vowel sound "i" as in "pit". The second syllable starts with the consonant sound "d" and ends with the long "e" sound as in "eel". The spelling of this word derives from the Old English "spedwelle" which meant "success". Speedwell refers to a group of plants with small blue or white flowers.

SPEEDWELL Meaning and Definition

1. Speedwell is a common name used to refer to various flowering plants belonging to the genus Veronica within the family Plantaginaceae. These herbaceous perennials are native to temperate regions and are characterized by small, delicate blooms that grow on erect, branched stems. The term "speedwell" derives from the Old English words "spaeder" and "wella," meaning "speed" and "to flow" respectively, alluding to the folklore belief that this plant had the ability to heal ailments quickly.

   The speedwell plants typically have oval-shaped leaves that are arranged in pairs along the stems. The flowers are small and arranged densely along the stems, forming spikes or racemes. The blooms are usually blue or violet, but variations in color include pink, white, and even yellow. Notable species of speedwell include Veronica persica, Veronica chamaedrys, and Veronica serpyllifolia.

   In traditional herbal medicine, speedwell has been utilized for its medicinal properties, particularly in treating respiratory and digestive ailments. It is believed to possess anti-inflammatory, astringent, and diuretic qualities. Additionally, some varieties of speedwell are cultivated as ornamental plants due to their charming, dainty flowers, and can be found in gardens, borders, or as ground cover. Overall, speedwell plants are valued for their delicate beauty, cultural significance, and potential health benefits.

2. A plant, the native name of several species of the genus veronica.

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

Common Misspellings for SPEEDWELL

• apeedwell
• zpeedwell
• xpeedwell
• dpeedwell
• epeedwell
• wpeedwell
• soeedwell
• sleedwell
• speedwesll
• seedwell
• spedwell
• speedwel
• speedwelle
• speetwells
• spedwelll
• spedwel

Etymology of SPEEDWELL

The word "speedwell" has its roots in Old English, specifically from the combination of the words "spēd" meaning "success" or "prosperity", and "wyrt" meaning "plant" or "herb". It was originally called "spēdwyrt" or "spēdwell" in Old English. The term "speedwell" is also influenced by the Middle English word "spedewort". Ultimately, "speedwell" refers to a plant that was believed to have medicinal properties and was associated with good fortune and success.

Similar spelling words for SPEEDWELL

• speedily,
• spot weld,
• speed limit,
• speidel,
• spot-weld,
• spotweld.

Plural form of SPEEDWELL is SPEEDWELLS