Bittercresses

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A genus of flowering plants in the mustard family, typically found in wet or disturbed areas and characterized by their peppery taste
2. Various species of small, herbaceous plants that produce white or yellow flowers and are often considered weeds in gardens and fields
3. Plants belonging to the family Brassicaceae that are known for their sharp flavor and ability to thrive in a variety of environments

Etymology: "Bittercresses" is simply the plural of "bittercress", so the etymology is that of its singular form. The name combines two English words: "bitter", describing the sharp, peppery taste of the leaves, and "cress", an older English name for leafy, pungent plants eaten in salads. Together they name a group of small weedy herbs whose leaves carry that mustard-like bite.