camomile

American  

[kam-uh-mahyl, -meel] / ˈkæm əˌmaɪl, -ˌmil /

noun

1. a variant of chamomile.

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camomile British  

/ ˈkæməˌmaɪl /

noun

1. any aromatic plant of the Eurasian genus Anthemis, esp A. nobilis, whose finely dissected leaves and daisy-like flowers are used medicinally: family Asteraceae (composites)

2. any plant of the related genus Matricaria, esp M. chamomilla ( German or wild camomile )

3. a medicinal beverage made from the fragrant leaves and flowers of any of these plants

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Etymology

Origin of camomile

C14: from Old French camomille, from Medieval Latin chamomilla, from Greek khamaimēlon, literally, earth-apple (referring to the apple-like scent of the flowers)

Example Sentences

When it became uncomfortable two days later, I was advised to apply brewed camomile tea to the area several times a day but nothing else.

From Seattle Times • Dec. 6, 2023

Some people use camomile tea, others use breathing exercises, but, for me, the most reliable tactic for getting to sleep quickly is to avoid screens before bed.

From The Verge • Jun. 4, 2022

“Try camomile tea and hopefully your core will stay warm,” says Dr. Hedge.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 5, 2018

When Walker talks about sleep he can’t, in all conscience, limit himself to whispering comforting nothings about camomile tea and warm baths.

From The Guardian • Sep. 24, 2017

I poured half the pitcher of camomile mixture over Andrea’s head and she poured the other half over mine.

From "Homesick" by Jean Fritz