Pronunciation: [ˈamɪɡdˌaləs] (IPA) 
The word "amygdalus," which refers to the genus of flowering plants that includes almonds and peaches, is spelled with an "-us" ending despite its feminine gender, as it is a Latin noun borrowed from Greek. In terms of phonetics, the pronunciation of "amygdalus" is /əˈmɪɡdələs/, with stress on the second syllable and the "g" sound pronounced as a voiced velar stop, similar to the "g" in "go" or "give."
Amygdalus is a noun that refers to a genus of small to medium-sized trees or shrubs belonging to the family Rosaceae. This genus is commonly known as almonds, which produce the highly regarded edible nuts. The name "amygdalus" is derived from the Greek word "amygdalos," meaning "almond."
These plants typically have alternate, pinnate or bipinnate leaves with serrated margins. Their flowers are usually pink or white and possess five petals. They are distinguished by their solitary or clustered appearance. Amygdalus species are native to regions with temperate climates, predominantly found in the Middle East, Central Asia, and the Mediterranean.
An important member of this genus is Amygdalus communis, commonly known as the sweet almond, which is extensively cultivated for its nuts. Amygdalus species, including A. communis, are known for their delicate and pleasant fragrance. In addition to their delicious taste and scent, almonds are a valuable food source as they possess significant nutritional value, containing essential proteins, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals.
Beyond their culinary significance, amygdalus plants are also esteemed for their ornamental value, often cultivated for their attractive blossoms and foliage. These trees and shrubs provide important ecosystem services, offering shade, shelter, and attracting pollinators. Moreover, they have a rich cultural history, mentioned in numerous ancient texts, poems, and stories, and are associated with symbolic meanings in various cultures and religions.
A genus of plants of the order Rosaceoe; the almonds, more correctly included in the genus Prunus.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "amygdalus" traces its origins back to the Late Latin term "amygdalum", which in turn comes from the Greek word "amygdalē". In Greek, "amygdalē" specifically referred to an almond, derived from the word "amygdalan", meaning "almond tree". The origin of the Greek term is uncertain, but it may have derived from the Semitic word "amygdālā", which also referred to an almond or almond tree. Over time, "amygdalum" entered Old French as "amigdal", and eventually evolved into the modern English word "almond".
