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

He sent for a conjuror to come, with his metallic rods and witch-hazel, to find the stolen money.

From Project Gutenberg

I offered sympathy and witch-hazel, but she would have none of my offerings, and presently returned to her pies.

From Project Gutenberg

Nine withes of witch hazel, banded together, is used as a rustic appliance to guard against witching influence.

From Project Gutenberg

Then he plucked two twigs of a witch hazel that grew near by, and they all proceeded to the beach.

From Project Gutenberg

How comes the witch-hazel to be the one exception, and to celebrate its floral nuptials on the funeral day of its foliage?

From Project Gutenberg