C1nouninformal2K

Weed

UK /["/wiːd/"]/US /["/wiːd/"]/

Definition

a wild plant growing where it is not wanted, especially among crops or garden plants

In simple words: A type of plant that people can use for drugs.

Examples

  • The yard was overgrown with weeds.
  • Routine maintenance of the garden consists of keeping weeds under control.
  • There were weeds pushing up through the gravel.
  • I wish I could give up the weed *(= stop smoking)*.
  • Don’t be such a weed!
  • The bartender was alone and in the weeds, so we had to wait twenty minutes to order.
  • I don't want to get too **deep in the weeds** here, but here's the short version:…

Usage notes

Often used in casual conversation among friends. Avoid using in formal settings or when discussing serious topics like health. Context matters, as 'weed' can be a slang term for cannabis.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'weed' as a 'wild and easy drug'.

Collocations

  • annual
  • perennial
  • aquatic
  • kill
  • clear
  • get rid of
  • grow
  • spread
  • spring up
  • control
  • killer
  • trimmer

Synonyms

  • cannabis
  • marijuana
  • pot
  • grass
  • herb

Antonyms

  • medicine
  • treatment

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'weeds' (unwanted plants).
  • Using as a verb instead of a noun.
  • Mispronouncing it, especially emphasizing the second 'e'.