Definition

A type of plant found in North America, known for its clusters of small white flowers and opposite leaves that wrap around the stem. It is often used in traditional medicine.

Example

The herbalist recommended boneset for its medicinal properties.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of boneset?

Yeah, I think it's that plant used for colds, right?

Exactly! My grandma used to make tea with boneset when I was sick.

That sounds interesting, I’d love to try it sometime!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Boneset is formed from "bone" (from Old English "ban", meaning the hard structure of the body) and "set" (from Old English "settan", meaning to place or put). The word refers to a plant traditionally used to help set or heal bones.

Memory Tip

Think of 'bone' as the hard structure of the body and 'set' as to place or put something in order — that's why boneset is associated with helping to heal bones.

Visually Confused Words