soapwort

American  

[sohp-wurt, -wawrt] / ˈsoʊpˌwɜrt, -ˌwɔrt /

noun

1. a plant, Saponaria officinalis, of the pink family, whose leaves are used for cleansing.

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soapwort British  

/ ˈsəʊpˌwɜːt /

noun

1. Also called: bouncing Bet.  a Eurasian caryophyllaceous plant, Saponaria officinalis, having rounded clusters of fragrant pink or white flowers and leaves that were formerly used as a soap substitute

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Etymology

Origin of soapwort

First recorded in 1540–50; soap + wort ²

Example Sentences

He grabbed a handful of soapwort leaves, mashed them in water, and washed off the last of the wolverine dung.

From "Wolf Brother" by Michelle Paver

“Hazel-rah,” said Pipkin, coming up from among the soapwort, “are you all right? Your leg looks queer—you’re dragging it.”

From "Watership Down: A Novel" by Richard Adams

The bats were hunting among the flies and moths attracted to the soapwort.

From "Watership Down: A Novel" by Richard Adams

It came from several thick patches of soapwort growing along the edge of the pasture.

From "Watership Down: A Novel" by Richard Adams

In the sixth region, 7,500 to 9000 feet, are found soapwort, sorrel, and groundsel; while the last narrow zone, 9000 to 9,200 feet, contains a few lichens, the commonest of which is the Stereocaulon Paschale.

From Etna A History of the Mountain and of its Eruptions by Rodwell, G. F.