pipsissewa

[ pip-sis-uh-wuh, -waw ]

noun

1. any evergreen plant of the genus Chimaphila, especially C. umbellata, the leaves of which are used medicinally for their tonic, diuretic, and astringent properties.

pipsissewa

/ pɪpˈsɪsəwə /

noun

1. any of several ericaceous plants of the Asian and American genus Chimaphila, having jagged evergreen leaves and white or pinkish flowers Also calledwintergreen

Word History and Origins

Origin of pipsissewa¹

1780–90, Americanism; perhaps < Eastern Abenaki kpi-pskwáhsawe literally, flower of the woods

Word History and Origins

Origin of pipsissewa¹

C19: from Cree pipisisikweu, literally: it breaks it into pieces, so called because it was believed to be efficacious in treating bladder stones

Example Sentences

Growing alongside of it you are very likely to find the Pipsissewa, with its beautiful perfume and ever-green leaves.

From Project Gutenberg