linfa

sap

noun LEEN-fah Rare

Origin: From Latin lympha (clear water, water goddess), later applied to plant sap and bodily fluid.

Also means

lymph; lifeblood

Usage Note

Linfa has two related meanings: the biological fluid linfa (lymph) circulating in the human lymphatic system, and the vital sap rising through plants (linfa vitale). Figuratively linfa vitale means the lifeblood or driving force of something. It is always feminine.

Examples

"La linfa sale dalle radici ai rami."

Natural Translation

The sap rises from the roots to the branches.

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