sweet grass

American  

noun

1. any of several fragrant plants, as manna grass or the sweet flag.

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sweet grass British  

noun

1. an aromatic grass ( Hierochloe odorata ), traditionally used in Native American rituals

2. See flote grass

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Etymology

Origin of sweet grass

First recorded in 1570–80

Example Sentences

Branches of cedar and sweet grass braids, both traditional Native medicines, lined the tables.

From Seattle Times • Mar. 7, 2024

An eagle feather, a blessed drum, a smoking pipe, a rattle, braided sweet grass, sage, cedar and tobacco to be used for smudging and a turquoise stone.

From BBC • Aug. 29, 2021

In the east, the sky glowed orange and crimson, and the light illuminated a sea of saltbushes, sweet grass and wind-rippled dunes.

From New York Times • Jan. 17, 2018

Halpern persisted, coming to meetings bearing gifts of sweet grass and flat cedar, aromatic herbs prized by Indians. "I was trying to show I took the trouble to learn something about their culture."

From Scientific American • Jul. 8, 2017

"He wants to be here in the sweet grass with us."

From "Sarah, Plain and Tall" by Patricia MacLachlan