Definition

A type of plant that has milky sap, often with colorful flowers and pods that release fluffy seeds. These plants are part of the Asclepias genus and are known for attracting butterflies.

Example

The garden was filled with beautiful milkweed, which attracted many butterflies during the summer.

Conversation

Have you seen the milkweed growing by the park?

Yeah, it's beautiful! The flowers are so vibrant.

I read that milkweed is important for butterflies, especially monarchs.

That's right! It's great to see it thriving in our area.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Milkweed → The word is formed from "milk" (from Old English *meolc*, meaning a white liquid produced by mammals) and "weed" (from Old English *wēod*, meaning a plant considered undesirable or troublesome). The term "milkweed" refers to a plant that produces a milky sap, often considered a weed in gardens.

Memory Tip

Think of the 'white liquid' ('milk') that comes from mammals and the 'undesirable plant' ('weed') to remember that milkweed is a plant known for its milky sap.

Visually Confused Words