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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
“Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged” 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012
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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
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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
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Example Sentences

Dear Miss Home—I enclose you a specimen of the herb Paris, which I promised to procure for you, if I could find one in Barton Wood.

“Julian,” whispered De Vayne as they went away, “would you mind my sending that herb Paris to Vi— I beg pardon, to Miss Home, to your sister.”

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