wandering jew
wandering jew Lexical Profile
• noun
Any of several fast-growing, creeping, or trailing plants of the genus Tradescantia or Commelina, native to the Americas, widely cultivated as ornamental houseplants.
"The florist suggested hanging a basket of Wandering Jew near the window, as its purple and silver striped leaves thrive in bright, indirect light."
A mythical immortal figure in medieval Christian folklore who is said to have taunted Jesus on the way to the Crucifixion and was subsequently doomed to walk the earth until the Second Coming.
"The legend of the Wandering Jew has inspired countless works of European literature, art, and poetry over the centuries."
Word Nuance & Usage
In botanical contexts, the term 'Wandering Jew' is increasingly viewed as offensive or antisemitic due to its roots in medieval folklore, prompting a widespread shift toward alternative names like 'inch plant' or 'spiderwort'.
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Originates from a 13th-century Christian legend about a Jewish man who mocked Jesus on the way to the Crucifixion and was cursed to wander the earth eternally. The name was later applied to creeping plants in the genus Tradescantia due to their invasive, rapidly spreading growth habit.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.