calamus

[ kal-uh-muhs ]

noun

, plural cal·a·mi [kal, -, uh, -mahy].

1. the sweet flag, Acorus calamus.
2. its aromatic root.
3. any of various tropical Asian palms of the genus Calamus, some of which are a source of rattan.
4. the hollow base of a feather; a quill.

calamus

/ ˈkæləməs /

noun

1. any tropical Asian palm of the genus Calamus, some species of which are a source of rattan and canes
2. See sweet flag
   another name for sweet flag
3. the aromatic root of the sweet flag
4. ornithol the basal hollow shaft of a feather; quill

Word History and Origins

Origin of calamus¹

1350–1400; Middle English < Latin < Greek kálamos reed, stalk

Word History and Origins

Origin of calamus¹

C14: from Latin, from Greek kalamos reed, cane, stem

Example Sentences

Dan, and Greece, and Mosel have set forth in thy marts wrought iron: stacte, and calamus were in thy market.

From Project Gutenberg

The pen (calamus) was made of a reed brought to a point and cleft much as our quill pens are.

From Project Gutenberg

Then follow other articles of commerce: bright iron, cassia, calamus and precious cloths for chariots.

From Project Gutenberg

Dan also and Javan going to and fro occupied in thy fairs: bright iron, cassia, and calamus, were in thy market.

From Project Gutenberg

It loves the roots of several species of nymphae, but its favourite is calamus root (calamus or acorus aromaticus).

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• fringe
• plume