kim mai
Definition
- Noun:
- Witch hazel: A small tree or shrub, scientifically classified in the genus Hamamelis, known for its fragrant yellow or red flowers that bloom in late winter or early spring, and for its medicinal properties.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- Hoa kim mai nở vàng rực vào cuối đông. (Witch hazel flowers bloom a brilliant yellow in late winter.)
- Tinh dầu từ cây kim mai được dùng trong nhiều loại mỹ phẩm. (Essential oil from the witch hazel plant is used in many cosmetics.)
Advanced Usage
- The term "kim mai" is primarily used in botanical, horticultural, or traditional medicine contexts. It is not a common word in everyday Vietnamese conversation.
Variants and Related Words
- Cây kim mai: Witch hazel tree/shrub.
- Cây kim mai trong vườn đã bắt đầu ra hoa. (The witch hazel tree in the garden has started to flower.)
Synonyms
- Witch hazel
- (scientific name)
Notes on Usage
- "Kim mai" is a direct translation or borrowing for the plant "witch hazel." It is important to distinguish it from the more common word "mai" (apricot blossom or Ochna integerrima), which is a different plant entirely and a symbol of the Vietnamese Lunar New Year (Tết).