Poppy meaning

A poppy is a type of flower in the Papaveraceae family - a bright, cocolorfulhappy-looking flower that also (in some species) succeeds the opium by-products of its seed pods. The name is derived from the Olde English "popæg" (poppy), probably taken from the Latin root "*pap," meaning "to swell," perhaps referring to the flowers' beautiful, ornamental curving blooms. There are several species of the poppy family familiar to most people. The corn poppy is red with a blood black center; It is used in commemoration of dead soldiers who lost their lives on the battlefields of war. The opium poppy contains the alkaloid morphine (from which heroin is synthesized) and is therefore associated with both pharmaceutical and drug use. This particular poppy plant is a symbol of sleepiness and tranquility (putting people into dream states released from their pain). For example, Morpheus was the Greek god of dreams (see the connection to morphine)? Lastly, ornamental poppies used to beautify any garden could include the yellow-orange California poppy (the state flower) or the magnificent blue Himalayan poppy. Watch out for the bright and friendly Mexican prickly poppy, though - that one is poisonous! Even though the opium poppy has lingering dangers hidden behind its external beauty, there is no doubt that this is a universally admired flower. Plus, there's something about the name “Poppy” that “jumps” – she's upbeat, happy, and approachable. What is surprising is how "popular" this name is outside of the United States. Apparently American parents haven't gotten the note from our fellow English-speaking countries that are fully adopting this name. For example, it is currently ranked #16 in England/Wales. It is also a Top 50 choice female name in Scotland and Northern Ireland and a Top 100 in Australia. North America? Not that much.