How Do You Spell AILANTHUS?

Pronunciation: [ˈe͡ɪlanθəs] (IPA)

The word "ailanthus" is a bit tricky to spell, as it does not follow standard English spelling patterns. The IPA phonetic transcription for "ailanthus" is /eɪˈlænθəs/ - this shows that the first syllable is pronounced like the letter "A" followed by the sound of "lann", and the final syllable is pronounced like "thus". The word comes from the Greek "ailanthos", meaning "tree of heaven", and is often used to refer to the invasive tree species Ailanthus altissima.

AILANTHUS Meaning and Definition

1. Ailanthus is a noun that refers to a fast-growing tree belonging to the Simaroubaceae family, native to China but widely cultivated across the world. The scientific name for this tree is Ailanthus altissima. It is commonly known by various names such as tree of heaven, paradise tree, and stinking sumac.

   The ailanthus tree typically reaches an impressive height, standing up to 80 feet tall. It features a smooth, light gray, and often mottled bark, which develops furrows as it ages. The compound leaves of the ailanthus are large, measuring up to three feet in length, consisting of many smaller leaflets. Their appearance resembles that of a feather, with serrated edges. In the spring, the tree produces small, fragrant, yellowish-green flowers that grow in clusters.

   Despite its appealing appearance, ailanthus has been categorized as an invasive species in many regions due to its prolific and rapid growth. It has the ability to adapt to a wide range of soil types and growing conditions. Ailanthus can be found in urban environments, along roadsides, and in disturbed areas. The tree has a reputation for being robust and resilient, often displacing native vegetation.

   In conclusion, an ailanthus is a towering deciduous tree with large, compound leaves and yellowish flowers. While admired for its beauty, it is also deemed an invasive species due to its fast growth and ability to dominate ecosystems.

Common Misspellings for AILANTHUS

• zilanthus
• silanthus
• wilanthus
• qilanthus
• aulanthus
• ajlanthus
• aklanthus
• aolanthus
• a9lanthus
• a8lanthus
• aikanthus
• aipanthus
• aioanthus
• ailznthus
• ailsnthus
• ailwnthus
• ailqnthus
• ailabthus
• ailamthus

Etymology of AILANTHUS

The word "ailanthus" is derived from Greek roots. The genus name "Ailanthus" comes from the combination of two Greek words: "aila" meaning "trouble" or "ailment", and "anthos" meaning "flower". Thus, the term can be translated as "trouble flower" or "ailment flower". This name was given to the plant due to its strong-smelling flowers, which some people find unpleasant. The full scientific name of the tree species is Ailanthus altissima.

Plural form of AILANTHUS is AILANTHUSES