Definition

A type of low-growing plant that stays green all year, known for its aromatic leaves and red berries. It often has white flowers and is found in North America. The leaves can be used to make a flavoring or oil.

Example

We picked wintergreen leaves to make a refreshing tea.

Conversation

Have you ever tried the flavor of wintergreen in candy?

Yes, I love it! It’s so refreshing.

I found some wintergreen tea the other day, and it was surprisingly good.

That sounds interesting! I should give it a try.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Wintergreen is formed from "winter" (from Old English *winter*, meaning the cold season) and "green" (from Old English *grene*, meaning the color of growing plants). The word "wintergreen" refers to plants that remain green throughout the winter season.

Memory Tip

Think of the cold season ('winter') and how some plants stay 'green' even then — that's what wintergreen means.

Visually Confused Words