eucalyptus
/ˌjuːkəˈlɪptəs/
noun
Origin
Ancient Greek
eu- + kalyptos — well + covered
Overview
Meaning Now
- A fast-growing evergreen tree or shrub native to Australia, known for its aromatic leaves and medicinal oil.
- The aromatic oil extracted from the leaves of such trees.
Literal older meaning
well-covered
Language path
Ancient Greek → New Latin → English
Earliest form
Eucalyptus
Earliest period
18th century
Journey
The name refers to the operculum, a protective cap or lid that covers the flower bud before it blooms and is shed as the flower expands. The genus was scientifically classified during the late 18th century as botanical interest in Australian flora surged.
Evolution
- Ancient Greek
εὖ (eu) + καλύπτος (kalyptos)
“well + covered (referring to the operculum covering the flower bud)”
- 1788 (New Latin)
Eucalyptus
“Botanical genus name”
- 18th century (English)
eucalyptus
“The tree or its extract”
Connections
Word parts
eu-
prefix
well
-kalyptos
root
covered
Related across languages
French
eucalyptus
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External references use DefinedTerm semantics.