witch hazel

witch hazel Definition

witch hazel

noun

any of a genus (Hamamelis) of small North American and Asiatic trees and shrubs of the witch hazel family; esp., a tall shrub (H. virginiana) of E North America, having yellow, wavy-petaled flowers in late autumn and woody fruit
a lotion consisting of an alcoholic solution of an extract from the leaves and bark of this shrub, used on bruises, inflammations, etc.
designating a family (Hamamelidaceae, order Hamamelidales) of dicotyledonous trees and shrubs of temperate regions, having flowers in heads or spikes, including the liquidambars

Etymology: altered (infl. by witch) < wyche hazel < ME wyche < OE wice, applied to trees with pliant branches, akin to ON veikr, weak

witch hazel Usage Examples

Converse of object

contain: These often contain witch hazel, which is thought to have soothing properties.

Adjective modifier

natural: Using a natural witch hazel extract to reduce irritation, the balm then sets to work on cooling and soothing the affected skin.
American: The American witch hazels can be confused with two Oriental species commonly grown as ornamentals.

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