cedar etymology

Etymology

The word "cedar" has a long and complex history, with roots in several ancient languages:

• Phoenician: "kedr"
• Greek: "kedros"
• Latin: "cedrus"

Meaning

The word "cedar" generally refers to evergreen trees of the genus Cedrus, which are known for their distinctive conical shape, fragrant wood, and medicinal properties.

Origin

The origins of the word "cedar" can be traced back to the Phoenicians, who used it to refer to Lebanese cedar (Cedrus libani). The Phoenicians were renowned for their maritime trade, and they exported cedarwood throughout the Mediterranean region.

The Greeks adopted the Phoenician word "kedr" and used it to refer to both Lebanese cedar and Atlas cedar (Cedrus atlantica), which was found in northwestern Africa. The Greeks also expanded the meaning of "kedros" to include the juniper tree (Juniperus sp.), which was often used as a substitute for cedar due to its similar appearance and scent.

The Romans derived their word "cedrus" from the Greek "kedros." They used the term to refer specifically to Lebanese cedar, which they imported from the Phoenicians for use in construction, furniture making, and religious ceremonies.

Over time, the word "cedar" spread throughout Europe and beyond. It was adopted into English via Old French and Middle English, and it has since been used to refer to a wide variety of coniferous trees with fragrant wood, including:

• Atlas cedar (Cedrus atlantica)
• Deodar cedar (Cedrus deodara)
• Eastern redcedar (Juniperus virginiana)
• Incense cedar (Calocedrus decurrens)
• Western redcedar (Thuja plicata)

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