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jewelweed

An American common name for plants of the genus Impatiens, particularly the native North American species Impatiens capensis (spotted jewelweed) and Impatiens pallida (pale jewelweed).

ˈd͡ʒuliwɛld149 viewsLast reviewed Jun 29, 2026+ Add a definition
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#1·Apr 28, 2026

An American common name for plants of the genus Impatiens, particularly the native North American species Impatiens capensis (spotted jewelweed) and Impatiens pallida (pale jewelweed). Typically found growing along stream banks and in moist woodland areas, jewelweed is well known in folk medicine as a remedy for poison ivy rash and insect stings. The name likely comes from the way water beads and glistens on its leaves. The plant's seed pods snap open dramatically when touched, which is why the genus is also called 'touch-me-not.'

After brushing through a patch of poison ivy, she rubbed jewelweed sap on her arm as a traditional remedy.
Origin: The name 'jewelweed' likely derives from the jewel-like appearance of water droplets beading on the plant's waxy leaves. Editorial expansion authored on Slangora.
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#2·Apr 27, 2026

(US) Impatiens, especially and .

For parents

Jewelweed means: Impatiens, especially and .. There is no real cause for parental concern; it is descriptive vocabulary rather than risky behaviour. If your teen uses it, context will usually make the intent clear. A short, curious question about where they heard it is usually all that is needed to know whether to follow up. For most families this word will pass by without incident; it is more a vocabulary curiosity than a parenting concern.

For ESL learners

jewelweed means: Impatiens, especially and .. Register: neutral, standard English. A common learner mistake is using the word in a register it does not fit, or assuming a single global meaning; native speakers immediately notice when slang appears in formal contexts, so always check the surrounding register before producing it yourself. A formal-English equivalent (a synonym or descriptive phrase) is usually safer in writing. When in doubt, paraphrase rather than reuse the slang form.

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