herb Paris

noun

, plural herbs Paris.

1. a European plant, Paris quadrifolia, of the lily family, formerly used in medicine.

herb Paris

noun

1. a Eurasian woodland plant, Paris quadrifolia, with a whorl of four leaves and a solitary yellow flower: formerly used medicinally: family Trilliaceae

Word History and Origins

Origin of herb Paris¹

First recorded in 1560–70; by folk etymology with Paris, France; possibly from Medieval Latin herba paris “herb of a pair, of a couple” (referring to the regularity of the leaves and flowers); of uncertain origin

Word History and Origins

Origin of herb Paris¹

C16: from Medieval Latin herba paris, literally: herb of a pair: so called because the four leaves on the stalk look like a true lovers' knot; associated in folk etymology with Paris, France

Example Sentences

True′-heart′edness; True′-love, one truly or really beloved: a sweetheart: the herb-Paris (see Herb).

From Project Gutenberg

Herb Paris is simply the plant with a pair of leaves; it should, however, have been described as having four leaves.

From Project Gutenberg

I was not surprised to find that "the Herb Paris" is poisonous, and was anciently used in medicine.

From Project Gutenberg

Some had four loops, which gave rise to the name true-love as applied to herb-paris.

From Project Gutenberg

"It was about the size of Herb Paris, my son," replied the hermit.

From Project Gutenberg