catalpa

[ kuh-tal-puh ]

noun

1. any of several trees constituting the genus Catalpa, of the bignonia family, especially C. speciosa, of the central U.S., or C. bignonioides, of the southern U.S., having opposite, sometimes whorled leaves, clusters of white flowers, and long, beanlike seed pods.

catalpa

/ kəˈtælpə /

noun

1. any bignoniaceous tree of the genus Catalpa of North America and Asia, having large leaves, bell-shaped whitish flowers, and long slender pods

Word History and Origins

Origin of catalpa¹

1720–30, Americanism; (< New Latin ) < Creek katałpa, equivalent to ka-, combining form of iká head + tałpa wing (apparently so called from the shape of the flower)

Word History and Origins

Origin of catalpa¹

C18: New Latin, from Carolina Creek kutuhlpa, literally: winged head, referring to the appearance of the flowers

Example Sentences

The leaves of a catalpa, across the roadway, hung motionless.

From Project Gutenberg

Looking out, she saw to her surprise that Julia was sitting on the terrace under the crooked catalpa-tree.

From Project Gutenberg

On the crooked limb of the catalpa-tree they rigged up a splendid swing, and Jerry stayed to luncheon.

From Project Gutenberg

The yard was shaded by stately locusts and elms, and a catalpa tree in season rained its pink and white blossoms upon the grass.

From Project Gutenberg

The servant was spreading a Navajo blanket on the ground, under the catalpa-tree.

From Project Gutenberg