What is oilseed rape? How to use in English

Definition & pronunciation of oilseed rape

oilseed rapenoun
cải dầu
/ˌɔɪlsiːd ˈreɪp//ˌɔɪlsiːd ˈreɪp/

Where does the word oilseed rape come from?

The word "oilseed rape" might seem like a complex term, but it actually has a straightforward origin. "Oilseed" refers to the seeds of certain plants that contain oil, which can be extracted and used in a variety of ways. "Rape," in this context, is not referring to sexual assault, but rather comes from the Old French word "rape" meaning "turnip." This is because the plant we now know as oilseed rape, scientifically known as Brassica napus, was initially cultivated as a type of turnip that had been crossed with a wild mustard species. The resulting hybrid plant was called the "rape turnip," due to its similarity to the original turnip, but it became clear that the most valuable part of the plant was its oil-rich seeds. Therefore, the term "oilseed rape" was coined to more accurately describe the crop, with "oilseed" emphasizing the seeds' potential as a source of oil, and "rape" still referring to the plant's origins as a type of turnip.

Example of vocabulary oilseed rapenamespace

Farmers in the region have been harvesting oilseed rape, also known as canola, for the past month.
The fields of oilseed rape provided a spectacular display of yellow as the sun set over the horizon.
The oil produced from oilseed rape is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, making it a healthier alternative to traditional cooking oils.
Due to an outbreak of disease, many oilseed rape crops have failed this year, causing a shortage in the market.
Farmers are exploring new methods to combat pests that target oilseed rape and help to ensure a bountiful harvest.