hawkweed

[ hawk-weed ]

noun

1. any composite plant of the genus Hieracium, usually bearing yellow flowers.
2. any of various related plants.

hawkweed

/ ˈhɔːkˌwiːd /

noun

1. any typically hairy plant of the genus Hieracium, with clusters of dandelion-like flowers: family Asteraceae (composites)

Word History and Origins

Origin of hawkweed¹

1555–65; translation of New Latin, Latin hierācium < Greek hierāk, stem of hiérāx hawk + Latin -ium -ium; weed ¹

Example Sentences

I have since learned that the plant is Hieracium aurantiacum from Europe, a kind of hawkweed.

From Project Gutenberg

The heath glittered in the sun, the withered hawkweed crackled at his feet, a warm wind blew softly towards him.

From Project Gutenberg

One species at least is a common wayside flower, and this is the Shrubby Hawkweed (H. boreale).

From Project Gutenberg

For the same reason I had rather say “hawkweed” than “hieracium”; the homelier word has more of kindly friendship.

From Project Gutenberg

My two exceptions shall be John-go-to-bed-at-noon and the hairy hawkweed, both of them common English meadow-plants.

From Project Gutenberg