Foliage
/ˈfoʊ.li.ɪdʒ/noun
The leaves of a plant or tree, collectively.
Did you know?In medieval times, foliage was often seen as a symbol of renewal and rebirth, tying it to various fertility rituals and celebrations.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*bʰol-
“to bloom, flower, or be lush”
Latin
Latin
folium
“leaf; greenery”
Old French
Old French
feuillage
“leafage; the act of producing leaves”
14th Century
Middle English
folaige
“the state of being leafy; leaves in general”
Modern English
English
foliage
“the collective term for leaves, especially in a decorative or lush context.”
Explore more surprising origins