pipsissewa

noun

pip·​sis·​se·​wa pip-ˈsi-sə-ˌwȯ How to pronounce pipsissewa (audio)
: any of a genus (Chimaphila, especially C. umbellata) of evergreen herbs of the heath family with astringent leaves used as a tonic and diuretic

Word History

Etymology

perhaps from Eastern Abenaki kpi-pskwáhsawe, literally, flower of the woods

First Known Use

1789, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of pipsissewa was in 1789

Dictionary Entries Near pipsissewa

Cite this Entry

“Pipsissewa.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pipsissewa. Accessed 1 Dec. 2024.

Medical Definition

pipsissewa

noun
pip·​sis·​se·​wa pip-ˈsis-ə-ˌwȯ How to pronounce pipsissewa (audio)
: any of a genus (Chimaphila, especially C. umbellata) of evergreen herbs of the wintergreen family (Pyrolaceae) with astringent leaves used as a tonic and diuretic

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