seaweed
UK: ˈsiːwiːd | US: ˈsiːwiːd
n. A plant or alga growing in the sea, especially marine algae of large size.
n. Colloquially, any marine vegetation washed ashore.
The word "seaweed" is a straightforward compound of "sea" (Old English sǣ, meaning "large body of water") and "weed" (Old English wēod, originally meaning "herb" or "plant"). Over time, "weed" acquired a negative connotation (unwanted plant), but in "seaweed," it retains its neutral botanical sense. The term emerged in Middle English (14th century) to describe marine algae, reflecting the practical observation of these plants as "sea-growing vegetation."
The beach was littered with dried seaweed after the storm.
Seaweed is a rich source of iodine and other minerals.
She collected colorful seaweed to press in her nature journal.
Many coastal cuisines incorporate seaweed as a key ingredient.
Scientists study seaweed to understand marine ecosystems better.