Definition

A type of plant that grows in salty areas, known for its thick, fleshy stems and small, scale-like leaves. It is often found in marshy environments and is also called samphire.

Example

We enjoyed a delicious salad made with fresh glasswort from the coastal marshes.

Conversation

Have you ever tried glasswort?

No, I haven't even heard of it before. What is it?

It's a salty plant that grows in marshes; some people eat it like a vegetable.

That sounds interesting! I’d love to give glasswort a try.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Glasswort → The word is formed from "glass" (from Old English *glæs*, meaning a hard, transparent substance) and "wort" (from Old English *wyrt*, meaning plant or herb). Glasswort refers to a plant that was historically used in the production of glass, hence its name.

Memory Tip

Think of 'glass' as the hard, transparent substance and 'wort' as a plant. This helps you remember that glasswort is a plant associated with the making of glass.

Visually Confused Words