Burr clover is a type of plant that is commonly found in the United States and other parts of the world. It is known for its distinctive burrs, which can attach themselves to clothing, animal fur, and even human skin. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of burr clover, its origins, and its associations.
Definitions
Burr clover is a type of legume that is characterized by its small, round leaves and its clusters of small, yellow flowers. It is also known for its distinctive burrs, which are small, prickly seed pods that attach themselves to anything that comes into contact with them. These burrs can be painful and difficult to remove, and they can cause irritation and infection if they become embedded in the skin.
Origin
Burr clover is native to the Mediterranean region of Europe, but it has been introduced to many other parts of the world, including North and South America, Australia, and New Zealand. It is commonly found in pastures, meadows, and other open areas, and it is often used as a forage crop for livestock.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, burr clover is defined as “a clover (Medicago polymorpha) having small yellow flowers and burlike fruits that cling to clothing and animal fur.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “a plant of the clover family, with small yellow flowers and prickly seed pods that attach themselves to clothing and animal fur.”
Associations
Burr clover is often associated with agriculture and livestock farming, as it is commonly used as a forage crop for animals. It is also associated with the outdoors and nature, as it is typically found in open areas and can be a common sight on hiking trails and in parks.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for burr clover include:
- California burclover.
- Toothed bur clover.
Antonyms
There are no direct antonyms for burr clover, as it is a specific type of plant. However, some opposite concepts might include:
- Smoothness.
- Ease of removal.
- Non-stickiness.
The same root words
The root words of burr clover are “burr” and “clover.” “Burr” refers to the prickly seed pods that are characteristic of the plant, while “clover” refers to the family of plants that burr clover belongs to.
Example Sentences
- The burr clover in the field was so thick that it was difficult to walk through without getting covered in burrs.
- The farmer planted burr clover in the pasture to provide a nutritious forage crop for his cows.
- The hiker had to stop and remove several burrs from his socks after walking through a field of burr clover.