spiderwort: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2 / RareFormal/Botanical/Gardening
Quick answer
What does “spiderwort” mean?
A common name for plants of the genus Tradescantia, known for their three-petaled flowers and grass-like leaves.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A common name for plants of the genus Tradescantia, known for their three-petaled flowers and grass-like leaves.
Any of various perennial plants of the dayflower family (Commelinaceae), especially of the genus Tradescantia, often grown in gardens for their colourful flowers and foliage. The name refers to the web-like filaments in the flowers or the viscous sap resembling spider silk.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage between regions. The term is used identically in botanical and gardening contexts.
Connotations
Neutral; denotes a specific type of garden plant.
Frequency
Equally low-frequency in both varieties, confined to specialised contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “spiderwort” in a Sentence
The [ADJ] spiderwort [VERB] in the garden.She planted [QUANT] spiderwort.Vocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Used in botanical texts and horticultural research.
Everyday
Used by gardeners or in plant nurseries.
Technical
The standard term for plants of the genus Tradescantia in botany and horticulture.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “spiderwort”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “spiderwort”
- Misspelling as 'spiderworth' (confusing 'wort' with 'worth').
- Using as a general term for any spidery-looking plant.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, spiderwort is generally considered a low-maintenance, hardy perennial suitable for many garden conditions.
The name likely originates from the web-like filaments in the flower or the viscous, thread-like sap that resembles spider silk.
Yes, many Tradescantia species (like Tradescantia zebrina) are popular and easy-to-grow houseplants.
Yes, but 'wandering jew' is an outdated and potentially offensive common name for some Tradescantia species. 'Spiderwort', 'inch plant', or the botanical name 'Tradescantia' are preferred.
A common name for plants of the genus Tradescantia, known for their three-petaled flowers and grass-like leaves.
Spiderwort is usually formal/botanical/gardening in register.
Spiderwort: in British English it is pronounced /ˈspaɪdəwəːt/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈspaɪdərwɜːrt/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a spider sitting on the WORT (old word for 'plant'), weaving its web among the three delicate petals of the flower.
Conceptual Metaphor
PLANT IS AN ANIMAL (its filaments/sap resemble a spider's web/silk).
Practice
Quiz
What is 'spiderwort' primarily?