Fringe-Tree
/ˈfrɪndʒ ˌtriː/noun
A small tree or shrub in the olive family, known for its drooping clusters of white, fringe-like flowers.
Did you know?Fringe-tree is named for its flower clusters, which look like shredded fringe, and the word fringe itself ultimately comes from the same root as French frange and Spanish franja, a line of hanging threads.
Etymological Timeline
Modern English
English
fringe-tree
“A shrub or small tree with fringe-like flower clusters.”
Early Modern English
English
fringe
“A border of hanging threads or a decorative trim.”
Old French
Old French
frenge
“A fringe or tassel.”
Late Latin
Latin
fimbria
“A border, hem, or fringe.”
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*bhendh-
“To bind or fasten.”