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Definition of burnet

burnet

/ˈbɜːr.nɪt/
bur · net

Plural:burnets
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burnet Lexical Profile

burnet Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A perennial herbaceous plant of the rose family (genus Sanguisorba), native to temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere, typically featuring pinnate leaves and dense clusters of small, dark reddish-brown flowers, historically cultivated as a salad green and medicinal herb.

Example

"The chef garnished the spring salad with freshly picked leaves of salad burnet, which added a subtle, refreshing cucumber flavor to the dish."


2

British A day-flying moth of the family Zygaenidae, native to the Palearctic region, characterized by dark, metallic-looking wings boldly patterned with bright red or yellow spots to warn predators of its toxicity.

Example

"During our hike across the chalk downland, we paused to observe a six-spot burnet resting delicately on a purple thistle."

• Rhymes for burnet

Word Origin & Etymology

Derived from Middle English 'burnet', from Old French 'brunete', a diminutive of 'brun' (brown). The name references the dark reddish-brown color of the plant's flower heads and the dark coloring of the moth.

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Burnet. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 14, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/burnet
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