Camomile

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A low aromatic herb with daisy-like flowers used in herbal medicine ; a soothing tea brewed from the dried blossoms of that plant
2. An aromatic daisy-like herb valued for its medicinal uses ; a calming drink prepared by steeping its dried flower heads in hot water
3. A fragrant low-growing plant with white and yellow blossoms ; an infusion made by steeping its flowers, often taken to relax

Etymology: The name of this herb means "earth-apple" in Ancient Greek. "Khamaimelon" joined "khamai," meaning "on the ground," and "melon," meaning "apple," and the plant was named for the way its flowers smell, which is fruity and apple-like, even though the plant itself is low and creeping. The word passed into Latin as "chamaemelon," then into Late Latin as "camomilla," and from there into Old French as "camomille." English borrowed it in the Middle Ages, and it was first recorded in Middle English in 1265 as "camamille." The spelling has shifted over the centuries, but the Greek image of an apple growing close to the ground has stayed attached to the plant.

Synonyms: chamomile