witch hazel

[ wich hey-zuhl ]

noun

1. a shrub, Hamamelis virginiana, of eastern North America, having toothed, egg-shaped leaves and small, yellow flowers. Compare witch hazel family.
2. a liquid extraction from the leaves or bark of this plant mixed with water and alcohol, used externally as a liniment for inflammations and bruises and as an astringent.

witch hazel

noun

1. any of several trees and shrubs of the genus Hamamelis, esp H. virginiana, of North America, having ornamental yellow flowers and medicinal properties: family Hamamelidaceae
2. an astringent medicinal solution containing an extract of the bark and leaves of H. virginiana, applied to treat bruises, inflammation, etc

Word History and Origins

Origin of witch hazel¹

1535–45; witch, variant of wych ( wych elm )

Example Sentences

As a preventive, apply amber Listerine or witch hazel or even alcohol to the area after showering and drying.

From Seattle Times

With so many individuals capable of traveling so far, it is no wonder that some of them found each of my witch hazel relatives.

From Seattle Times

In their place, conservancy staff and volunteers this summer planted dozens of native species significant to Wampanoag culture, such as white oak trees, blueberry bushes, witch hazel, goldenrod and hay-scented ferns.

From Washington Times

Aromatic lilies, lavender and bee balm fill the air with sweet scent in summer, while witch hazel, daphne and other flowering shrubs provide fragrance in quieter seasons.

From Seattle Times

The second night, I applied a liberal dose of white liniment—Uncle Holt’s own concoction of hartshorn, arnica, witch hazel, camphor gum, eggs, and cider vinegar.

From Literature