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Glite Dictionary
Montezuma

Montezuma

9.9
A group of evergreen trees from Mexico and Puerto Rico with large leathery leaves and pink to orange flowers
  • noun
  • /ˌmɒntəˈzuːmə/
  • Specialized
translation icon : montezuma
  • The Montezuma tree is known for its striking orange flowers that attract many pollinators.

Examples

  • In tropical gardens, the Montezuma trees provide shade with their large, leathery leaves.

  • The health of the Montezuma trees in this region is vital for the local ecosystem.

  • Hmm, they sure lift the steins for dear old montezuma.

    The Ambushers (1967)

Synonyms

Montezuma cypress
vsMontezuma
  • Specialized
9.8

A large tree from Mexico that grows by rivers, has a very wide trunk and lives a long time

is a broader genus including trees with leathery leaves and pink to orange flowers
ahuehuete
vsMontezuma
  • Specialized
9.9

A very large Mexican tree that often lives for hundreds of years

is the general species rather than a single famous specimen

Compounds

Montezuma cypress
  • Specialized
9.8

A large tree from Mexico that grows by rivers, has a very wide trunk and lives a long time

Montezuma cypress
  • Specialized
8.9

Wood from the large tree that grows by rivers in Mexico and is used for building and furniture

Surface Forms

Montezuma singular
Montezumas plural

Etymology

Montezuma comes from the name of the Aztec ruler Motecuhzoma in the Nahuatl language. The name is said to mean 'he who frowns' or 'angry lord', and the tree was named after that famous ruler, so the plant's name connects it to Mexico and its history.