spike·nard (sp k närd )n. 1. An aromatic perennial herb (Nardostachys jatamansi) of the Himalaya Mountains, having rose-purple flowers. Also called nard. 2. An ointment of antiquity, probably prepared from this aromatic plant. 3. A North American plant (Aralia racemosa) having small greenish flowers, aromatic roots, and bipinnately compound leaves. [Middle English, from Anglo-Norman, from Medieval Latin sp ca nard : Latin spca, spike, ear + Latin nard, genitive of nardus, nard.] |
spikenard [ˈspaɪknɑːd ˈspaɪkəˌnɑːd]
n
1. (Life Sciences & Allied Applications / Plants) an aromatic Indian valerianaceous plant, Nardostachys jatamans, having rose-purple flowers
2. (Chemistry / Elements & Compounds) an aromatic ointment obtained from this plant
3. (Life Sciences & Allied Applications / Plants) any of various similar or related plants
4. (Life Sciences & Allied Applications / Plants) a North American araliaceous plant, Aralia racemosa, having small green flowers and an aromatic root Also called (for senses 1, 2) nard
[from Medieval Latin spīca nardī; see spike2, nard]
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spikenard - an aromatic ointment used in antiquity Translations
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