Definition

A type of mint plant known for its aromatic leaves and flowers, often used for its oil in traditional medicine and as an insect repellent.

Example

She brewed a tea from pennyroyal leaves to help with her stomachache.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of pennyroyal?

Yeah, I think it's some kind of mint, right?

Exactly! I read it's used for making oil and even as an insect repellent.

That's interesting! I should try it in my garden to keep the bugs away.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Pennyroyal is derived from the Middle English 'pennyrial' (meaning a type of mint) and the Old French 'pennroyal' (meaning mint). The word combines 'penny' (possibly referring to the small size of the leaves) and 'royal' (meaning regal or of high quality). Thus, pennyroyal refers to a mint that is considered of high quality or value.

Memory Tip

Think of 'penny' as something small and 'royal' as something of high quality — pennyroyal is a mint that is both small and valued.

Visually Confused Words