Definition

A small tree or shrub that is grown in a pot and shaped to look like a full-sized tree, often used for decoration.

Example

She has a beautiful bonsai tree in her living room that she takes care of every day.

Conversation

Have you seen my new bonsai?

Yeah, it's really beautiful!

Thanks! I love taking care of it and watching it grow.

It's such a cool hobby; I should try growing a bonsai too.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Bonsai is derived from the Japanese word "盆栽" (bonsai), which combines "盆" (bon, meaning tray or shallow container) and "栽" (sai, meaning planting). The term refers to the art of growing miniature trees in containers, emphasizing the cultivation of plants in a tray.

Memory Tip

Imagine a small tree carefully 'planted' ('栽') in a 'tray' ('盆') — that's how you can remember that bonsai refers to the art of growing miniature trees in containers.

Visually Confused Words