Hazel

Podcast 1 · Introduction

Hazel

A documentary-style narration: origin, meaning, and feel.

Part of speech

noun and adjective

Pronunciation

HAY-zul  /ˈheɪz(ə)l/

Definition

As a noun: a small deciduous tree or shrub (Corylus avellana) native to Britain and Europe, bearing edible nuts (hazelnuts) and catkins; the wood of this tree, traditionally used for hurdles, wattle, and dowsing rods. As an adjective: of a light brown or reddish-brown colour, typically used to describe eyes.

Plain meaning

The hazel is the native woodland tree that produces hazelnuts and the familiar yellow catkins of late winter — one of the first signs of spring. As an adjective, hazel describes the warm, mixed brown-green-gold eye colour that is distinct from both brown and green.

Register

Neutral in the botanical and eye-colour senses. Hazel eyes is one of the standard eye colour descriptors. The hazel in folk tradition — the dowsing rod and the fairy association — adds a layer of magical or traditional resonance to the word.