Flocks vs phlox

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Grammarist

Flocks and phlox are two words that are pronounced in the same manner but are spelled differently and have different meanings. They are homophones. We will examine the different meanings of flocks and phlox, where these two words came from and some examples of their use in sentences.

Flocks is the plural form of flock, which is a word that means a group of animals, usually birds, sheep or goats. A flock bands together while moving, eating or sleeping. Flock is also used figuratively to mean a group of people or a congregation of a church. Less frequently, flock may mean tufting, a certain type of stuffing for pillows or furniture, or a powdered cloth applied to fabric or wallpaper. Flock is used as a noun or a verb, related words are flocked and flocking. The word flock is derived from the Old English word flocc, which means a group of people or a troop.

Phlox is a North American plant with red, white or purple flowers and opposite leaves, often sweet-smelling. Phlox is usually used in borders and hanging baskets. Phlox is derived from the Greek word phlox, meaning flame.

Examples

Typically there are three or four flocks of crows that are scattered around the area, including one near Dryden, one on the west side of Cayuga Lake and one in Lansing, McGowan said. (The Ithaca Voice)

Scientists in Nottingham have discovered the reason why lambs are born in springtime – because flocks of sheep get frisky on dark winter nights. (The Nottingham Post)

“One day, I pulled off a strip of flocked wallpaper, and that was the start of it.” (The Omaha World-Herald)

A biennial, dame’s rocket is often confused with garden phlox because it is of a similar stature and the flowers are also similar, with one big exception. (The Republican Journal)