Meaning & Definition of word "Hazel"

Hazel

/ˈheɪ.zəl/

noun:

  • 1. A type of tree or shrub that produces edible nuts, belonging to the genus Corylus, particularly Corylus avellana.
    • Example: The hazel tree was laden with nuts ready for harvest.
  • 2. The nuts produced by the hazel tree.
    • Example: I picked some hazelnuts from the tree in the garden.
  • 3. A color that is a mixture of green and brown, often used to describe eyes.
    • Example: She has beautiful hazel eyes that change color in the sunlight.

adjective:

  • 1. Relating to or resembling the hazel tree.
    • Example: They used hazel branches to make a traditional shepherd's crook.
  • 2. Describing something that is of a brownish-green color, resembling the color of hazel eyes.
    • Example: He wore a hazel sweater that complemented his eye color perfectly.

Etymology

Middle English: from Old English hæsel; related to Dutch hazelaar and German Hasel.

Common Phrases and Expressions

hazel eyes:

Eyes that have a light brown or golden color, resembling hazelnuts.

in the hazel:

To be slightly confused or disoriented, often used in a poetic context.

Related Words

hazelnut:

The edible nut of the hazel tree.

Corylus:

The genus of the hazel tree.

Slang Meanings of hazel