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Glite Dictionary
maidenhair tree

maidenhair tree

8.4
A Chinese tree with fan-shaped leaves often planted along streets
  • noun
  • /ˈmeɪdənˌhɛr tɹi/
translation icon : árbol ginkgo
  • The seeds of the maidenhair tree are used in some traditional Asian cuisines.
  • maidenhair tree (Ginkgo biloba)

Examples

  • The maidenhair tree is often planted along city streets because of its resistance to pollution.

  • Many people admire the unique fan-shaped leaves of the maidenhair tree in autumn.

  • Look at that stunning maidenhair tree over there!

  • The maidenhair tree is known for its unique leaf shape.

  • The maidenhair tree is often planted in urban areas for its beautiful fan-shaped leaves.

  • Many people enjoy the shade provided by the majestic maidenhair tree during summer.

  • In fall, the leaves of the maidenhair tree turn a stunning golden yellow, attracting many visitors.

Synonyms

ginkgo
vsmaidenhair tree
2 7.8

A tree with fan-shaped leaves often grown along streets and in gardens

emphasizes botanical features and the yellow fleshy seed details
Ginkgo biloba
vsmaidenhair tree
  • Specialized
1 6.3

A tree from China with fan-shaped leaves often grown in cities and used in medicine

focuses on appearance and street planting rather than medicinal use
gingko
vsmaidenhair tree
  • US
7.2

A Chinese tree with fan-shaped leaves that turn bright yellow in autumn

is the standard botanical form of that same name

Surface Forms

maidenhair tree singular
maidenhair trees plural

Morphology

maidenhair + tree

This is a conventional botanical name: the meaning 'Ginkgo biloba' is a specific lexicalized reference and cannot be derived from the constituents. The element 'maidenhair' is not a transparent, descriptive modifier for a B1 learner (it is a fixed plant name element rather than literal 'maiden' + 'hair'), so knowing 'tree' alone does not allow one to infer the intended species.

Etymology

Maidenhair tree gets its name from its fan-shaped leaves, which reminded early plant experts of the delicate maidenhair fern. That's why the name is used for the Ginkgo, the tree with those fan-shaped leaves.