How Do You Spell WYCH HAZEL?

Pronunciation: [wˈɪt͡ʃ hˈe͡ɪzə͡l] (IPA)

Wych hazel is a flowering shrub known for its medicinal properties. Its spelling might seem confusing due to the unusual combination of letters, but it's actually quite simple. The "w" is pronounced as a voiced labio-velar approximant (/w/), while the "y" is pronounced as a voiced palatal approximant (/j/). The first syllable, "wych," rhymes with "hitch" and the second syllable, "hazel," is pronounced with a short "a" sound (/æ/). Altogether, the correct pronunciation is /wɪtʃ ˈheɪzəl/.

WYCH HAZEL Meaning and Definition

1. Wych hazel, also known as witch hazel, is a shrub or small tree native to North America and parts of Asia. Scientifically called Hamamelis virginiana, it belongs to the family Hamamelidaceae. Wych hazel is renowned for its unique botanical properties and has been used for its medicinal benefits for centuries.

   The plant typically grows up to 20 feet tall with oval-shaped leaves and small yellow flowers that bloom in the fall. The bark of wych hazel is gray-brown and smooth. However, its most distinctive feature is its fruit, which resembles a small, woody capsule that forcefully expels seeds when mature.

   The medicinal properties of wych hazel are mainly derived from the bark, leaves, and twigs. It is rich in tannins, flavonoids, and essential oils, which contribute to its astringent, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant qualities. Wych hazel is commonly used topically in the form of a liquid extract or lotion to alleviate skin conditions such as acne, sunburn, eczema, and insect bites. Its astringent properties help tighten the skin, reduce inflammation, and soothe irritation.

   In addition to its skin-related uses, wych hazel also serves as a gentle cleanser, toner, and moisturizer. It is often incorporated into cosmetic products like cleansers, toners, and shaving creams due to its purifying and soothing effects on the skin. Wych hazel is widely available in various forms, including distilled liquid extracts, ointments, creams, and even as an ingredient in oral herbal remedies.

   Overall, wych hazel is a versatile plant with numerous beneficial properties, particularly for maintaining healthy skin and addressing various skin conditions.

2. Witch-hazel, hamamelis.

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

3. Same as witch-hazel.

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

Common Misspellings for WYCH HAZEL

• wich hazel
• wytch hazel
• qych hazel
• aych hazel
• sych hazel
• eych hazel
• 3ych hazel
• 2ych hazel
• wgch hazel
• whch hazel
• wuch hazel
• w7ch hazel
• w6ch hazel
• wyxh hazel
• wyvh hazel
• wyfh hazel
• wydh hazel
• wycg hazel
• wycb hazel
• wycn hazel

Etymology of WYCH HAZEL

The word "wych hazel" is a combination of two terms, "wych" and "hazel".

The term "wych" has Old English roots. It is derived from the word "wice" or "wicu", which means "bend" or "twist". This likely refers to the flexible nature of the branches of the wych hazel tree.

"Hazel", on the other hand, comes from the Old English word "haesel". It is believed to have originated from the Proto-Germanic word "hasalaz", which means "hazel tree". The term "hazel" specifically refers to the common hazel (Corylus avellana) or the shrub genus Corylus.

When combined, "wych hazel" essentially means the "twisted or bending hazel".