rhat·a·ny (r t n- )n. pl. rhat·a·nies 1. Either of two South American shrubs (Krameria lappacea or K. argentea) having bilaterally symmetrical flowers, spiny globose fruits, and thick roots. 2. The dried root of either of these plants, formerly used as an astringent and now used in various dental preparations, such as toothpaste and mouthwash. [American Spanish ratania, possibly from Quechua ratana, to thin, unite.] |
rhatany [ˈrætənɪ]
n pl -nies
1. (Life Sciences & Allied Applications / Plants) either of two South American leguminous shrubs, Krameria triandra or K. argentea, that have thick fleshy roots
2. (Medicine / Pharmacology) the dried roots of such shrubs used as an astringent Also called krameria
[from New Latin rhatānia, ultimately from Quechua ratánya]
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