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

They brought in Native American healing practices, such as talking circles, where students would get to share their feelings and frustrations; traditional medicines like sweet grass and sage; drumming and singing.

From Seattle Times • Nov. 16, 2022

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

In the pasture half a dozen horses nibbled contentedly at the sweet grass.

From "The Red Pony" by John Steinbeck