catananche

noun

cat·​a·​nan·​che
ˌkatəˈnaŋ(ˌ)kē
1
capitalized : a genus of Mediterranean herbs (family Compositae) having linear or lanceolate leaves crowded toward the base of the stem and ligulate blue or yellow flowers in long-stalked heads
2
plural -s : a plant of the genus Catananche

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, modification of Latin catanance, plant used in love potions, from Greek katanankē, literally, means of compulsion, from kata- cata- + -anankē force, compulsion

Love words?

You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.

Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:

  • More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
  • Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
  • Advanced search features
  • Ad free!

Dictionary Entries Near catananche

Cite this Entry

“Catananche.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/catananche. Accessed 23 Nov. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!