mimosa

Estimated CEFR level: C2 — Proficiency

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. noun evergreen Australasian tree having white or silvery bark and young leaves and yellow flowers
  2. noun any of various tropical shrubs or trees of the genus Mimosa having usually yellow flowers and compound leaves
  3. noun a mixed drink containing champagne and orange juice

Etymology

From New Latin mimosa, from Latin mimus (“mime, actor”), referring to Mimosa pudica and its habit of shrinking back when touched. The cocktail is named after the bright yellow, fragrant flowers of the mimosa Acacia dealbata.

In classic literature

Synonyms

silver wattle, Acacia dealbata

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