sagebrush
UK: ˈseɪdʒbrʌʃ | US: ˈseɪdʒbrʌʃ
n. A type of shrubby plant belonging to the genus Artemisia, commonly found in arid regions of North America, known for its silvery-green foliage and strong aroma.
sagebrush = sage<aromatic herb> + brush<shrub>
- sage: Derived from Old French sauge (from Latin salvia, meaning "healing plant"), referring to aromatic herbs used medicinally.
- brush: From Middle English brusche, meaning "shrub" or "undergrowth," often used to describe dense, low-growing vegetation.
Etymology Origin:
The word sagebrush combines "sage," evoking the plant’s herbal aroma reminiscent of true sage (Salvia), with "brush," describing its shrubby growth habit. This compound term emerged in 19th-century American English to distinguish the arid-adapted Artemisia species from other sage-like plants. The name reflects both its visual resemblance to sage and its ecological role as a dominant shrub in western U.S. landscapes.
The sagebrush thrives in the dry plains of Nevada.
Cowboys often camped among the sagebrush during cattle drives.
The scent of sagebrush filled the air after the rain.
Sagebrush provides critical habitat for wildlife like pronghorns.
Artists depict the stark beauty of sagebrush in Western paintings.