wolfsbane
wolfsbane Lexical Profile
wolfsbane Game Scores & Validity
• noun
Any of several highly poisonous perennial flowering plants of the genus Aconitum (especially Aconitum lycoctonum and Aconitum vulparia) in the buttercup family Ranunculaceae, native to mountainous regions of the Northern Hemisphere and bearing tall spikes of distinctive hooded yellow or purple blossoms.
"Hikers in the alpine meadows were warned not to touch the wild wolfsbane, as its hooded blossoms and roots contain potent neurotoxins."
A European perennial flowering herb (Arnica montana) of the family Asteraceae, growing in mountain pastures and producing aromatic, bright yellow daisy-like flower heads used in traditional topical preparations.
"The herbalist gathered golden blossoms of mountain wolfsbane to prepare a soothing salve for bruises."
Word Origin & Etymology
Coined in the 16th century as a loan translation of Modern Latin lycoctonum (from Ancient Greek lykoktonon, literally 'wolf-slayer'), referencing the historical practice of using the plant's toxic roots to poison bait for wolves.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.