silphium Synonyms
Another word for silphium
• noun (Context 1)
An unidentified, presumably extinct plant of the giant fennel genus Ferula native to ancient Cyrenaica in North Africa, which was highly prized in Greco-Roman antiquity for its aromatic resin used as a culinary seasoning, perfume, and medicine.
"Ancient coins from Cyrene frequently depicted the prized laserwort plant, which formed the backbone of the city's export economy."
• noun (Context 2)
Any tall North American perennial flowering plant of the genus Silphium in the daisy family (Asteraceae), such as the compass plant or cup plant, having resinous sap and bearing large, bright yellow, sunflower-like composite flower heads.
• noun (Context 3)
The pungent gum resin extracted from the stem and root of the ancient Mediterranean silphium plant, formerly used in classical antiquity as a condiment and medicinal agent.
"Roman recipes compiled by Apicius often called for a pinch of laser to enhance savory sauces."