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Mentha aquatica

Mentha aquatica

8.4
A European mint plant that grows in wet places and smells like bergamot orange
  • noun
  • Specialized
translation icon : menta acuática
  • The distinctive scent of Mentha aquatica is reminiscent of bergamot orange and is prized in perfumery.

Examples

  • Mentha aquatica is often found along the banks of streams and in marshes.

  • Gardeners appreciate the aromatic leaves of Mentha aquatica for use in herbal teas.

  • I found some Mentha aquatica growing by the river.

  • The Mentha aquatica has a lovely fragrance.

  • Mentha aquatica is commonly used in herbal remedies due to its refreshing scent and flavor.

  • Many people grow Mentha aquatica in their gardens because it thrives in wet soil.

  • The Mentha aquatica plant adds a unique fragrance to dishes and beverages with its aromatic leaves.

Synonyms

water mint
vsMentha aquatica
  • Specialized
6.3

A mint plant that grows in wet places and smells a little like lemon

has identical meaning but uses the Latin species name instead
water-mint
vsMentha aquatica
7.3

A plant with a fresh mint smell that grows near water

has identical meaning but the common name is often written without a hyphen

How Aromatic

Mentha piperita
  • Specialized
4.6
Mentha pulegium
  • Specialized
9.9
Mentha aquatica
  • Specialized
8.4
Mentha rotundifolia
  • Specialized
9.9
Mentha longifolia
  • Specialized
8.8

Surface Forms

Morphology

Mentha + aquatica

The binomial combines 'Mentha' (mint) with the Latin-derived adjective 'aquatica' (aquatic/water-loving), so the overall meaning 'a mint that grows in wet places' is directly inferable from its parts. Scientific names are compositionally formed and the root 'aquat-' has clear cognates (aquatic/aquático/etc.), making the phrase predictable to learners who recognize the constituents.

Etymology

Mentha aquatica is Latin and literally means Mentha 'mint' and aquatica 'water', because it grows in wet places like streams and marshes. So the name helps you remember that Mentha aquatica is a water-loving mint with a fresh scent like bergamot orange used in teas and perfume.