kaffir boom
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: 1. A small, semi-evergreen, broad-spreading tree (Erythrina caffra or Erythrina lysistemon) native to eastern South Africa. It is characterized by dense clusters of bright orange-scarlet flowers and small coral-red seeds. The tree yields a light, soft wood.
Usage
The term "kaffir boom" is used specifically to refer to this type of South African coral tree. It is primarily a botanical or common name. * The garden was brightened by the brilliant flowers of the kaffir boom. * The light wood from the kaffir boom is sometimes used for fence posts.
Advanced Usage / Notes
- The term "kaffir" in the name is considered highly offensive and derogatory in South Africa and many other contexts. Its use is strongly discouraged.
- In modern and respectful discourse, the tree is referred to by its botanical names (, ) or by alternative common names such as coast coral tree or lucky bean tree.
Variants and Related Words
- Coast coral tree: A modern, non-offensive common name for the same tree.
- Lucky bean tree: Another common name, referring to its distinctive red seeds.
- Erythrina: The genus to which this tree belongs.
- Coral tree: The general common name for trees in the genus.
Synonyms
- Coast coral tree
- Lucky bean tree
- (botanical name)
Noun
- small semi-evergreen broad-spreading tree of eastern South Africa with orange-scarlet flowers and small coral-red seeds; yields a light soft wood used for fence posts or shingles
- small semi-evergreen tree of South Africa having dense clusters of clear scarlet flowers and red seeds