goldenrod

[ gohl-duhn-rod ]

noun

1. any composite plant of the genus Solidago, most species of which bear numerous small, yellow flower heads.
2. a strong to vivid yellow.

adjective

1. of the color goldenrod.

goldenrod

/ ˌɡəʊldənˈrɒd /

noun

1. any plant of the genus Solidago, of North America, Europe, and Asia, having spikes made up of inflorescences of minute yellow florets: family Asteraceae (composites) See also yellowweed
2. any of various similar related plants, such as Brachychaeta sphacelata ( false goldenrod ) of the southern US

Word History and Origins

Origin of goldenrod¹

First recorded in 1560–70; golden + rod

Example Sentences

The imp’s furious face scrunched up as tightly as it could, considering its beard was tucked into its bright blue pants, a color that happened to go nicely with its shockingly goldenrod tunic.

From Literature

Five goldenrod species that planted themselves around the yard have just staged their big show, and so have about as many volunteer asters.

From Seattle Times

“Then my job is to layer in extra jokes. Some work better than others. Look at ‘goldenrod.’

From Los Angeles Times

At a gated agricultural plot on the Penn State Berks Campus, pollinators hum to and fro through rolling fields of aster and goldenrod.

From National Geographic

Crew members then brought in native plants such as goldenrod, fireweed, broadleaf lupine, various grasses and other native species along the shore and intertidal zone, said King County ecologist Mason Bowles.

From Seattle Times