spikenard

8 ENTRIES FOUND:

spike·nard

noun \ˈspīk-ˌnärd\

Definition of SPIKENARD

1
a : a fragrant ointment of the ancients b : a Himalayan aromatic plant (Nardostachys jatamansi) of the valerian family from which spikenard is believed to have been derived
2
: a North American perennial herb (Aralia racemosa) of the ginseng family with an aromatic root and panicled umbels

Origin of SPIKENARD

Middle English, from Anglo-French or Medieval Latin; Anglo-French spicanarde, from Medieval Latin spica nardi, literally, spike of nard
First Known Use: 14th century

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