Sophora
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun 1. A genus of flowering plants: Sophora is the scientific name for a genus of trees and shrubs belonging to the pea family (Fabaceae). These plants are characterized by having compound leaves (odd-pinnate) and often bear showy, pea-like flowers. Some species are known for their ornamental value or medicinal properties.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- The yellow flowers of the Sophora tree brightened the entire garden.
- Several alkaloids with biological activity have been isolated from *Sophora species.*
- Botanists are studying the phylogenetic relationships within the genus *Sophora.
Advanced Usage
- In Botanical Nomenclature: The word is always capitalized () and italicized when referring to the genus name in scientific writing. When used in a general sense, it may not be italicized.
- The paper discussed the phytochemistry of Sophora flavescens.*
Variants and Related Words
- Sophora japonica (Styphnolobium japonicum): A common ornamental tree also known as the Japanese pagoda tree or Chinese scholar tree.
- Sophora secundiflora: A species known as the mescal bean or Texas mountain laurel.
- Sophorine: An alkaloid found in some plants.
Synonyms
- Genus Sophora (scientific synonym)
- Pagoda tree (common name for specific species like )
Notes on Different Meanings
- The primary and almost exclusive meaning of "sophora" is as a botanical genus name. It does not have common idiomatic or phrasal verb uses. Its usage is largely confined to scientific, horticultural, and pharmacological contexts.
Noun
- cosmopolitan genus of trees and shrubs having odd-pinnate leaves and showy flowers; some species placed in genus Podalyria