alexanders

[ al-ig-zan-derz, -zahn- ]

noun

, (used with a singular or plural verb)

, plural al·ex·an·ders.

1. a tall plant, Angelica atropurpurea, of the parsley family, having broad clusters of small white flowers.
2. a related plant, Smyrnium olusatrum, having yellowish flowers.

alexanders

/ ˌælɪɡˈzɑːndəz /

noun

1. a biennial umbelliferous plant, Smyrnium olusatrum, native to S Europe, with dense umbels of yellow-green flowers and black fruits
2. golden alexanders
   golden alexanders an umbelliferous plant, Zizia aurea, of North America, having yellow flowers in compound umbels

Word History and Origins

Origin of alexanders¹

Probably < French alexandre ( s ); compare Middle English alisaundre (< OF), Old English alexandre < Medieval Latin ( petroselīnum ) Alexandrīnum a name for Smyrnium olusatrum, and synonymous with Medieval Latin petroselīnum Macedonicum, apparently through association of Macedonia with Alexander the Great; parsley

Word History and Origins

Origin of alexanders¹

Old English, from Medieval Latin alexandrum, probably (through association in folk etymology with Alexander the Great) changed from Latin holus atrum black vegetable

Example Sentences

They went on shore again about ten oclock, and, attended by the rowers, inquired the way to Sir Alexanders.

From Project Gutenberg

In 1810 fresh friction was created by Alexanders objection to Napoleons matrimonial ambitions.

From Project Gutenberg

As it was, the deification of the ruler had to provide the nexus, as in Alexanders empire.

From Project Gutenberg

Mr. Girard has just told me that he was going to stay here to-night, in Mr. Alexanders absence.

From Project Gutenberg

Youre so near to them both I thought that perhaps Do you know anything about the real state of Mr. Alexanders affairs?

From Project Gutenberg