Wood sorrel is a type of edible wild plant with a distinctive sour taste. Its spelling is pronounced as /wʊd ˈsɔːrəl/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The first part of the spelling, "wood", is pronounced with a short "u" sound as in "book". The second part, "sorrel", is pronounced with a long "o" sound as in "door" followed by a stressed "r" sound and an unstressed "uh" sound. The correct spelling of this plant's name is important to avoid confusion with other similar-sounding words.
Wood sorrel is a flowering plant that belongs to the genus Oxalis and the family Oxalidaceae. It is a perennial herbaceous plant commonly found in woodland areas and shady environments. Wood sorrel is characterized by its trifoliate leaves, meaning it has three leaflets resembling a clover. The leaves are often heart-shaped and vary in color, ranging from green to reddish-purple, depending on the species.
The flowers of wood sorrel are notable for their bell-shaped petals and can be pink, white, yellow, or violet, depending on the specific variety. The plant reproduces through both seeds and underground bulbs, allowing it to spread and colonize new areas. Wood sorrel is typically found throughout North America, Europe, and parts of Asia.
In terms of its culinary uses, wood sorrel has a pleasant and tangy flavor due to its high oxalic acid content. The leaves are commonly used in salads, soups, and garnishes, adding a refreshing lemon-like taste to dishes. Additionally, it can be boiled or brewed into teas to create a refreshing and citrusy beverage. Wood sorrel is also sometimes used medicinally, as it has been thought to possess various beneficial properties such as aiding digestion and boosting immunity.
Overall, wood sorrel is a versatile plant that is cherished for its fresh and tangy taste, making it a popular addition to both culinary and medicinal applications.
A plant of the genus oxalis, having an acid taste.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "wood sorrel" has a straightforward etymology. It is a combination of "wood" and "sorrel".
1. Wood: The word "wood" comes from the Old English word "wudu", which can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "wōdus". It refers to the substance derived from trees, which is used for various purposes like building, burning, or crafting.
2. Sorrel: The term "sorrel" can be traced back to the Old French word "surele", which originated from the Late Latin word "sūrel(l)a" meaning "sour". It refers to a perennial flowering plant characterized by its sour or acidic taste, which is due to the presence of oxalic acid in its leaves.
When combined, "wood sorrel" simply refers to a specific type of sorrel that is commonly found in woodland or forested areas.