ENGLISH
REFERENCE

rowan

n. countable
C2 Proficiency US //ˈɹoʊən// UK //ɹˈəʊən// rowan Archaic

n. a small tree that grows red berries in the autumn. In some old stories, people believed this tree could protect them from bad luck or magic.

n. any of several small deciduous trees or shrubs in the genus Sorbus, typically bearing pinnate leaves and clusters of red pomes. Often associated with folklore and protective magic in Northern European traditions.


SIMPLE

The rowan tree in the garden is full of bright red berries.

CONTEXTUAL

In autumn, the rowan's heavy clusters of fruit attract a wide variety of birds to the woodland edge.

COMPLEX

The ancient rowan stood as a solitary sentinel on the hillside, its gnarled branches a testament to the harsh winds and the enduring myths of the highlands.

Usage

Often used as a modifier in compound nouns like 'rowan tree' or 'rowan berry'.

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