ginseng
/ˈdʒɪn.seŋ/
Chinese Origin
Health
Original Word
人参
Mandarin (rén shēn)
Entered English
17th century
First recorded usage in English
The Story Behind "ginseng"
From Mandarin 'rén shēn' (人参), literally 'man root', referring to the forked shape of the root resembling a human figure. Valued in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries.
Example Usage
"Ginseng tea is believed to boost energy levels."
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