löv

Löv is a common noun in Swedish and Norwegian that refers to the leaves of a plant or tree, collectively known as foliage. It is used in botany, horticulture, forestry, and everyday language to denote the flat, typically thin photosynthetic organs that grow from stems and branches. The term also appears in expressions describing trees with or without leaves, seasonal changes, and in descriptions of plant anatomy.

In Swedish, löv is separated as singular and plural; ett löv denotes a single leaf, while plural forms denote multiple leaves and the definite form löven is used for “the leaves.” In Norwegian, løv is similarly used, with inflected forms according to the language's grammar. The word has cognates in other Germanic languages, such as Danish løv, all reflecting the same botanical concept.

Leaf anatomy varies by species but generally includes a blade, petiole, and sometimes a stipule. Leaves perform photosynthesis, regulate gas exchange, and minimize water loss. They are deciduous in many temperate species—during autumn, chlorophyll breaks down, and leaves change color and fall off, a phenomenon known as leaf fall (lövfällning in Swedish, løvfelling in Norwegian).

Löv is also encountered in cultural and literary contexts as a symbol of nature, growth, and change. See also botany, leaf anatomy, photosynthesis.