IPA: /ˈbɛɡərˌwiːd/
KK: /ˈbɛɡərˌwid/
A type of plant, often found in tropical and subtropical areas, that is used for animal feed or as a cover crop. It can also refer to certain plants that grow in neglected areas.
The farmer planted beggarweed to improve the soil and provide food for his livestock.
Beggarweed is formed from "beggar" (from Old English "begga", meaning one who asks for charity) and "weed" (from Old English "wēod", meaning a plant or herb). The term refers to a plant that is often associated with poverty or lowly status, as it is commonly found in neglected areas.
Think of someone who 'asks for charity' ('beggar') and a 'plant' ('weed') that grows in neglected places. This helps you remember that beggarweed refers to a plant often found in poor conditions.