In this wonderful universe of slang, phrases and terms acquire unique and innovative meanings. “Foxglove” is also a term that shines out as an exciting and special entry. It had been specified as a brilliant flowering plant. It may also be disastrous and wild. In casual conversations, foxglove is setting up its own identity for itself.
But what does foxglove mean in slang? It has its botanical origins. But how did the term come to be used in everyday language today? Let’s dig deep into this slang term for better understanding.
Foxglove Meaning In Slang
Foxglove is any tall shrub that has many bell-shaped flowers. It has spikes of white or purple flowers that resemble cups growing on its stem. Foxglove is of the scrophulariaceous family. It belongs to the Eurasian plant in the genus Digitalis. It is mostly D. purpurea. The source of digitalis is the soft and wrinkled leaves.
It has several meanings throughout its origins. It goes from healing to hazard. The importance of foxglove flowers could be explained in both good and negative ways. It’s said that foxglove blooms can sometimes heal and sometimes cause agony.
This is because foxglove blossoms have dual uses. They can be medicinal and also can be fatal. For individuals or situations, this term denotes who is apparently attractive but dangerous inside.
In addition, the foxglove flower is the source of many slang terms.
Where Did The Term “Foxglove-shaped” Begin From?
The term “foxglove-shaped” first appeared in writings in the 1850s. The foxglove-shaped term was also used in the Oxford English Dictionary. There it goes back to 1856.
It is also taken from a dictionary by a botanist author, John Stevens Henslow, and the Church of England Minister.
Slang & Folk Terms for Foxglove
The meanings of foxglove from several cultures and eras are listed in alphabetical order below. The list shows how foxglove can be denoted by many types of casual and folk names.
A reference to the toxin digitalis found in foxglove flowers is “Dead Man’s Bells.”
The German term “Fingerhut” means both the single glove finger and the little cup.
Folk’s Gloves means foxglove blooms. These are used as gloves by several kinds of fairies.
Drug slang for “foxglove” is digoxin. It is often known as digitalis. This is a potentially lethal street drug.
Little Glove is the French term for foxglove blooms. It is similar to “gantelee.”
Our Lady’s Gloves is the term utilised in medieval gardens. Foxglove blooms were then named after the Virgin Mary.
The name given to the venom, digitalis, found in foxglove blooms is “Witch’s Gloves.”
Present-Day Meanings of Foxglove Flower
The scientific term given to foxglove blooms is digitalis. It refers to the presence of powerful chemicals. They, if given appropriately, can treat many heart-related problems. Hence, the meaning of the foxglove flower is healing and cure. But the digitalis may also be harmful.
Foxglove blossoms have two separate meanings in the Victorian flower language. One includes a lack of sincerity, and the other means immortality.
Another time, the foxglove has a lucky and an unlucky meaning. The symbolic meaning of foxglove blossoms can also be determined by their colour. Purple, red, yellow, white and pink foxglove flowers are obtainable.
Old Slang Meaning of the Foxgloves Flower
Besides its negative associations with risks and insincerity, foxgloves can also symbolise pride.
Ambition is also related to foxglove. It can be for oneself or someone else. It’s a story told in Scandinavia. The fairies taught foxes to ring their foxglove bells. This is done when alerting other forest animals to their coming attackers.
Final Words
We hope that our details of the meaning of foxglove in slang satisfy your question. There can be both positive and negative aspects of this term. Some people may find it charming. Others may see it as deadly and harmful. That is why it has two meanings. It represents an alert to look beyond external signs and be aware of hidden risks.