seed
UK: siːd | US: siːd
n. a mature plant ovule containing an embryo capable of developing into a new plant
n. the source or origin of something (e.g., "the seed of an idea")
vt. to sow seeds in soil for growth
vt. (sports) to rank players or teams in a tournament
The word "seed" traces back to Old English sǣd, derived from Proto-Germanic sēdiz, meaning "that which is sown." It shares roots with Old Norse sáð, Dutch zaad, and German Saat. The term has retained its core agricultural meaning while expanding metaphorically to describe origins or beginnings (e.g., "seed money"). Its simplicity reflects its ancient, unbroken lineage in Germanic languages.
She planted sunflower seeds in her garden.
The idea took seed in his mind and grew into a novel.
Farmers seed their fields in early spring.
The top-ranked player was seeded first in the tournament.
This conflict sowed the seeds of future rebellion.