Heliotrope
/ˈhiːliəˌtroʊp/noun
A plant that turns toward the sun; also refers to a color of purple or lavender.
Did you know?In ancient times, heliotropes were believed to possess magical properties, used in rituals to invoke solar deities and promote love.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*sóʊl
“Sun, daylight, the source of warmth and life.”
Ancient Greek
Greek
ἥλιος (hēlios) + τροπή (tropē)
“Sun + turn; literally, 'turning towards the sun'.”
Latin
Latin
heliotropium
“A term used to describe sun-loving plants.”
Middle English
Middle English
heliotrope
“Adoption of the Latin term referring to the flower that follows the sun.”
Modern English
English
heliotrope
“Refers to both the plant and a shade of purple associated with it.”
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