Definition

A type of flowering plant that belongs to the genus Striga, known for being parasitic and harmful to crops like sorghum and maize.

Example

Farmers are concerned about witchweed because it can damage their crops significantly.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of witchweed?

Yeah, I read that it's a big problem for farmers.

Right? It's crazy how it can ruin crops like maize and sorghum.

Totally! We need to find ways to stop it from spreading.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Witchweed is formed from "witch" (from Old English "wicce", meaning a female sorcerer or practitioner of witchcraft) and "weed" (from Old English "wēod", meaning a plant or herb). The term "witchweed" refers to a plant associated with witchcraft or believed to have magical properties.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'sorceress' ('witch') and a 'plant' ('weed') — witchweed is a plant linked to witchcraft.

Visually Confused Words