Definition

A type of plant that belongs to the genus Thlaspi, known for its small, flat seed pods with wing-like edges, commonly found in North America and originally from Eurasia.

Example

The garden was filled with pennycress, its unique seed pods catching the sunlight.

Conversation

Have you ever seen a pennycress plant before?

No, I haven't. What does it look like?

It has these small, round pods that are really unique.

That sounds interesting! I should look out for it next time.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Pennycress is formed from "penny" (from Old English *pening*, meaning a small coin) and "cress" (from Old English *cresse*, meaning a type of water plant). The word refers to a plant that is associated with the value of a penny, likely due to its small size or commonality.

Memory Tip

Think of a small coin ('penny') and a type of water plant ('cress') to remember that pennycress refers to a plant that is small and common, much like a penny.

Visually Confused Words