sorrel
sorrel Lexical Profile
sorrel Game Scores & Validity
• noun
Any of various herbaceous plants with arrow-shaped, sour-tasting leaves, particularly those of the genus Rumex, commonly used in salads, soups, and culinary garnishes.
"The chef finished the rich salmon dish with a delicate chiffonade of fresh sorrel to add a bright, lemony acidity."
A light reddish-brown color, or a horse possessing a coat of this color, usually with a mane and tail of the same shade.
"The cowboy adjusted his saddle and rode the handsome sorrel across the dusty plains."
A sweet, tart Caribbean beverage made from the steeped sepals of the roselle plant (a type of hibiscus), traditionally spiced with ginger and cloves and served during the holidays.
"Every Christmas, her Jamaican grandmother prepared a large pitcher of iced sorrel infused with warming spices."
• adjective
Of a light reddish-brown color, typically used to describe the coat of horses or other animals.
"The rancher proudly led his new sorrel mare out of the stable for the guests to admire."
Word Nuance & Usage
Note that 'sorrel' refers to two completely distinct etymological roots: one denoting sour-tasting herbaceous plants and a Caribbean hibiscus drink, and the other describing a reddish-brown horse or color.
• Rhymes for sorrel
Word Origin & Etymology
The plant name comes from Old French 'surele' (from 'sur', meaning sour). The color and horse term derives from Old French 'sorel', a diminutive of 'sor' (yellowish-brown).