juniper
UK: ˈdʒuːnɪpə | US: ˈdʒuːnɪpər
n. An evergreen shrub or tree of the genus Juniperus, bearing aromatic berries used for flavoring gin and in traditional medicine.
The word "juniper" traces back to Latin iuniperus, which referred to the juniper tree. The first part, "jun," may derive from an earlier Indo-European root meaning "young" or "fresh," reflecting the plant's evergreen nature. The suffix "-per" is less clear but could link to Latin parere (to produce), alluding to its berry-bearing trait. Over time, the word evolved through Old French (genévrier) and Middle English (junipere) to its modern form, retaining its botanical association.
The gin's distinct flavor comes from juniper berries.
Juniper shrubs thrive in rocky, dry climates.
Ancient cultures used juniper for purification rituals.
Birds often nest in the dense branches of juniper trees.
The scent of crushed juniper needles is sharp and refreshing.