sheep sorrel

noun

1. a slender weed, Rumex acetosella, of the buckwheat family, found in poor, dry soils, having arrow-shaped leaves with an acid taste.

sheep sorrel

noun

1. a polygonaceous plant, Rumex acetosella, of the N hemisphere, having slightly bitter-tasting leaves and small reddish flowers

Word History and Origins

Origin of sheep sorrel¹

First recorded in 1570–80

Example Sentences

The spade or plow that turns these under is sure to turn up some other variety, as chickweed, sheep-sorrel, or goose-foot.

From Project Gutenberg

Sheep sorrel was most common, next to this yellow or bitter dock and green foxtail.

From Project Gutenberg

The property was picturesque to look at but its best herbage was sheep-sorrel.

From Project Gutenberg

Rumex acetosella (sheep sorrel), common by river and log-paths, as Chesuncook log-path.

From Project Gutenberg

Reddy resembles the common, but much-admired sheep sorrel, while I am like that tender little flower, the forget-me-not.

From Project Gutenberg