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Glite Dictionary
Rhus vernix

Rhus vernix

9.9
A shrub also called poison sumac that grows in swamps and makes an oil causing itchy skin rashes
  • noun
  • /rəs ˈvɜrnɪks/
  • Specialized
translation icon : sumac venenoso
  • After brushing against Rhus vernix, she developed an itchy rash on her arm.

Examples

  • Hikers should learn to identify Rhus vernix to avoid painful rashes caused by its oil.

  • The wetlands are home to Rhus vernix, which thrives in the swampy soil.

  • The Rhus vernix plant is often found in wetland areas.

  • Many people are allergic to Rhus vernix and should avoid it.

  • After brushing against Rhus vernix, she developed an itchy rash on her arm.

  • Hikers should learn to identify Rhus vernix to avoid painful rashes caused by its oil.

  • Many people are allergic to Rhus vernix and should avoid it.

Synonyms

poison sumac
vsRhus vernix
  • US
1 8.4

A North American shrub or small tree with white berries and an oil that causes a skin rash

is the botanical name used in formal or scientific contexts for the same plant
Toxicodendron vernix
vsRhus vernix
  • Specialized
9.9

A swamp bush with smooth branches and pale berries whose oil causes a skin rash

uses an alternative scientific label for the same shrub rather than a common name
poison ash
vsRhus vernix
  • US
9.9

A North American swamp shrub with divided leaves and greenish-white berries that produces oil causing skin rashes

is the formal botanical name rather than a regional common label
poison dogwood
vsRhus vernix
  • US
9.9

A North American swamp shrub with greenish flowers and poisonous berries and oily parts that cause skin irritation

is the scientific designation used in botanical descriptions rather than a common name

Surface Forms

Rhus vernix singular
Rhus vernixes plural

Morphology

Rhus + vernix

The form is a Latin binomial (genus + species), so a learner who knows 'Rhus' (sumac) can infer this is a type of sumac/shrub, giving a clear category-level inference. However 'vernix' has no transparent dictionary meaning here and the crucial properties (poisonous, swamp habitat, irritating oil) cannot be derived from the constituents, so the meaning is only partially predictable.

Etymology

Rhus vernix may come from old words: Rhus meaning sumac and vernix meaning a sticky, shiny coating. Because the plant makes an 'oily sap' that sticks to skin and causes a painful rash, the name helps you remember it is the 'poison sumac' to avoid.