Definition

1. Noun:
   • Strophanthus: A genus of tropical African and Asian vines and shrubs, known for producing seeds that contain toxic, heart-affecting compounds (cardiac glycosides). Historically used to make arrow poison and in traditional medicine.
   • Buffalo horn: A literal translation of the compound word's components ("sừng" = horn, "trâu" = buffalo/water buffalo). This meaning is primarily used in the compound's literal sense or in specific cultural contexts, not as a common name for the plant.

Usage Examples

• Noun (Botanical):

  • Hạt của cây sừng trâu chứa chất độc mạnh. (The seeds of the strophanthus plant contain a powerful poison.)
  • Một số loài sừng trâu được dùng trong y học cổ truyền. (Some species of strophanthus are used in traditional medicine.)

• Noun (Literal):

  • Chiếc tù và được làm từ sừng trâu. (The trumpet was made from buffalo horn.)

Advanced Usage

• The botanical name comes from Greek words for "twisted cord" and "flower," referring to the plant's long, twisted flower petals.
• The compound "sừng trâu" for the plant is likely a descriptive folk name, possibly referring to the shape of its seed pods or horns.

Variants and Related Words

• Strophanthus (n): The scientific genus name and direct English equivalent.
• Sừng (n): Horn.
• Trâu (n): Water buffalo.

Synonyms

• Botanical: Strophanthus vine, poison arrow vine.
• Literal: Water buffalo horn.

Notes on Usage

• In modern Vietnamese, when referring to the plant, the scientific name "Strophanthus" or the full compound "cây sừng trâu" (strophanthus plant) is used for clarity.
• The literal meaning "buffalo horn" is typically understood from context or specified as "sừng con trâu." The compound "sừng trâu" itself is strongly associated with the botanical term.