How Do You Spell WITCH HAZEL?

Pronunciation: [wˈɪt͡ʃ hˈe͡ɪzə͡l] (IPA)

Witch hazel is often misspelled as "which hazel," likely due to the similar sounding words "which" and "witch." However, the correct spelling of this botanical extract is with a "w" and not a "h." In IPA phonetic transcription, the correct pronunciation of witch hazel is /wɪtʃ ˈheɪzəl/. The first sound is a short "i" followed by a "t" and a "ch" sound. The second syllable is pronounced with a long "a" sound and ends in a "z" and an "l" sound.

WITCH HAZEL Meaning and Definition

1. Witch hazel is a noun that refers to a type of shrub or small tree known scientifically as Hamamelis virginiana, native to North America. It is commonly recognized for its medicinal properties and is primarily cultivated for its bark and leaves.

   The plant typically grows up to 20 feet tall and has oval-shaped, serrated leaves that turn golden-yellow in autumn. Witch hazel gets its name from its peculiar characteristic of flowering while simultaneously producing fruits from the previous year. The flowers are small, with four narrow strap-shaped petals and a bright, eye-catching color.

   In terms of its medicinal uses, witch hazel is renowned for its astringent and anti-inflammatory properties. Extracts derived from its bark and leaves are commonly used as effective natural remedies, particularly in skincare products and treatments. Its astringent quality makes it ideal for treating conditions like acne, various skin irritations, and insect bites, as it can help tighten the skin and reduce inflammation. It is also used to soothe hemorrhoids, relieve itching, and reduce swelling.

   Furthermore, witch hazel is sometimes used as a soothing agent in topical applications and is known for its ability to alleviate discomfort associated with minor cuts, sunburns, and bruises. It has been used for centuries in traditional medicine and is still widely used today, both in commercial products and as a standalone natural remedy.

Common Misspellings for WITCH HAZEL

• qitch hazel
• aitch hazel
• sitch hazel
• eitch hazel
• 3itch hazel
• 2itch hazel
• wutch hazel
• wjtch hazel
• wktch hazel
• wotch hazel
• w9tch hazel
• w8tch hazel
• wirch hazel
• wifch hazel
• wigch hazel
• wiych hazel
• wi6ch hazel
• wi5ch hazel
• witxh hazel
• witvh hazel
• witchhazel

Etymology of WITCH HAZEL

The word "witch hazel" is derived from the Middle English term "wiche", which comes from the Old English word "wicce" (pronounced "witch-eh"). "Wicce" originally referred to a female magician or sorceress. The word "hazel" is believed to have originated from the Old English word "haesel", which refers to the tree itself. So, "witch hazel" essentially means "magical hazel tree". The association with witches likely comes from the historical belief in the mystical or magical properties of the witch hazel plant.

Similar spelling word for WITCH HAZEL

• watch case.