Definition

A type of gum obtained from certain thorny shrubs, particularly from the Middle East, used in various industries like pharmacy and textiles.

Example

The chef used tragacanth as a thickening agent in the sauce.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of tragacanth?

No, I haven't! What is it?

It's a gum from a thorny shrub used in some foods and medicines.

That sounds interesting! I love learning about new ingredients.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Tragacanth is derived from the Greek word "tragakantha" (meaning goat thorn), which is a combination of "tragos" (meaning goat) and "akantha" (meaning thorn). The word refers to a gum obtained from the plant, which has thorny characteristics and is often used in food and pharmaceuticals.

Memory Tip

Imagine a thorny plant that resembles a goat's habitat — that's why tragacanth, which means goat thorn, refers to a gum from such a plant.

Visually Confused Words