B1noun1K

Leaf

UK /["/liːf/","/liːvz/"]/US /["/liːf/","/liːvz/"]/

Definition

a flat green part of a plant, growing from a stem or branch or from the root

In simple words: A flat, green part of a plant that grows from a stem.

Examples

The leaf turned a vibrant red in the fall.
She pressed a leaf in the pages of her book as a keepsake.
The tree's leaf fell gently to the ground.
He decided to leaf through the magazine for inspiration.
We need to leaf the house before it gets too late.

Usage notes

Used in both formal and informal contexts. Appropriate in discussions about plants, nature, and biology. Not typically used in a slang or vulgar context.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of a 'leaf' floating gently down from a tree in the fall.

Collocations

new
young
autumn
have
come into
grow
appear
emerge
grow
litter
mould/mold
in full leaf

Synonyms

foliage
leaflet
blade

Antonyms

root
stem

Common mistakes

Mispronouncing it as 'lef'.
Confusing it with 'leave', which means to go away.
Using plural 'leafs' instead of 'leaves' when talking about more than one.