Definition

A type of grass that grows back every year and has small, round tubers that can be eaten.

Example

Nutgrass can be difficult to remove from gardens because it keeps coming back.

Conversation

Have you ever tried cooking with nutgrass?

No, I haven't! What does it taste like?

It's kind of earthy and slightly sweet, actually.

That sounds interesting! I might give it a shot.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Nutgrass is formed from "nut" (from Old English *hnutu*, meaning a hard-shelled fruit or seed) and "grass" (from Old English *græs*, meaning a type of vegetation). The word refers to a type of grass that produces nut-like tubers underground.

Memory Tip

Think of a hard-shelled fruit ('nut') that grows in a grassy area ('grass') — that's why nutgrass refers to this type of grass with nut-like tubers.

Visually Confused Words