mistletoe
MIS-uhl-toh
/ˈmɪsltəʊ/
A parasitic evergreen plant with white berries that grows on trees, traditionally hung as a winter holiday decoration under which people are expected to kiss.
Mistletoe is specifically associated with the romantic holiday tradition of kissing beneath its sprigs, as well as its botanical nature as a parasite on host trees.
The story behind the word. The etymology of mistletoe is surprisingly unromantic. It comes from the Old English 'mistel' (which is related to the word for dung, as the plant is spread via bird droppings) and 'tan' (meaning twig). Thus, 'mistletoe' literally translates to 'dung twig', reflecting how the plant propagates on tree branches.
Word relationships
- parasitic plant: Parasitic plant is the scientific classification, while mistletoe is the specific cultural and botanical name of this festive plant.
Commonly confused with
- holly: Holly has sharp, prickly green leaves and bright red berries, whereas mistletoe has smooth, oval leaves and white berries.
Collocations
- sprig of mistletoe
- hang mistletoe
- kiss under the mistletoe
- mistletoe berries
Example sentences
- "According to tradition, couples who meet under the mistletoe should share a kiss." A playful holiday gathering where people observe traditional customs.
Memory hook
Don't 'miss' the 'toe' of your partner when you kiss under the 'mistletoe'. Mistletoe is the kissing plant.
When not to use
Do not confuse with holly (which has red berries and prickly leaves) or ivy.
Fun facts
- In Norse mythology, the god Baldur was killed by an arrow made of mistletoe, which was the only plant on Earth that had not sworn an oath to protect him.
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