chamomile: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B2Neutral
Quick answer
What does “chamomile” mean?
A small, daisy-like plant with white petals and a yellow centre, known for its use in herbal tea and medicine.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A small, daisy-like plant with white petals and a yellow centre, known for its use in herbal tea and medicine.
The dried flower heads of this plant, used primarily to make a mild, calming herbal infusion; a symbol of relaxation, calm, and herbal healing.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The spelling 'chamomile' is common in both varieties, though 'camomile' (with a single 'h') is a frequent alternative spelling in British English. The pronunciation differs.
Connotations
Identical positive connotations of natural wellness, calm, and mild herbal remedy.
Frequency
Both spellings are common; 'chamomile' might be slightly more prevalent globally due to its use in product branding.
Grammar
How to Use “chamomile” in a Sentence
drink [chamomile]brew [chamomile]steep [chamomile]plant/grow [chamomile]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “chamomile” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The herbarium does not list this species as one that can be chamomiled.
adjective
British English
- She preferred the camomile scent to the lavender one.
American English
- The chamomile aroma filled the cozy kitchen.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
In the herbal tea and wellness industry: 'Our chamomile blend sales increased by 15% this quarter.'
Academic
In botany or pharmacology: 'The study examined the sedative properties of German chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) extract.'
Everyday
Used to refer to the tea or plant: 'I'm going to make a cup of chamomile to help me sleep.'
Technical
In horticulture or herbalism: 'Chamomile requires well-drained soil and full sun for optimal growth.'
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “chamomile”
- Misspelling: 'chamomille', 'chamommile'. Confusing it with other herbal plants like 'chrysanthemum'. Using it as a countable noun incorrectly: 'a chamomile' (acceptable for a plant) vs. 'some chamomile' (for the dried product/tea).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
There is no difference in meaning. 'Chamomile' is the more common spelling, especially in American English, while 'camomile' is a frequent variant in British English. Both are correct.
Yes, pure chamomile tea, made from the dried flowers of the plant, is naturally caffeine-free.
No, 'chamomile' is not a standard verb in modern English. It is used as a noun (the plant/flowers) or attributively as an adjective (e.g., chamomile tea).
Yes, the two most common types used for tea are Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile) and German chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla). They have similar properties and uses.
A small, daisy-like plant with white petals and a yellow centre, known for its use in herbal tea and medicine.
Chamomile is usually neutral in register.
Chamomile: in British English it is pronounced /ˈkæməmaɪl/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈkæməˌmaɪl/ or /ˈkæməˌmil/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “As calming as chamomile tea.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: "CHA-rming MO-MI plant helps you LIE down and relax." (CHA-MO-MI-L).
Conceptual Metaphor
CALM IS CHAMOMILE (e.g., 'She has a chamomile personality' implies a soothing, non-confrontational nature).
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary context for the word 'chamomile'?