Definition

A type of plant that belongs to the genus Polygonum, known for its jointed stems and small flowers.

Example

The gardener struggled to remove the knotweed from the flower bed because it grows so quickly.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of knotweed?

Yeah, I think it's that plant that grows really fast, right?

Exactly! It can be a real problem in gardens.

I should keep an eye out for it when I'm planting this spring.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Knotweed is formed from "knot" (from Old English "cnotta", meaning a tied or interlaced part) and "weed" (from Old English "wēod", meaning a plant or herb). The word refers to a type of plant that has a knotted appearance in its stems.

Memory Tip

Think of a plant that has a 'tied' or 'interlaced' look ('knot') and is considered a 'plant' ('weed'). This helps you remember that knotweed is a plant with knotted stems.

Visually Confused Words