Definition

Noun: * A perennial herb (Chelidonium majus) of the poppy family (Papaveraceae), native to Europe and western Asia, characterized by a branched woody stock, deeply lobed leaves, and bright yellow flowers. It is commonly known as greater celandine or tetterwort and contains a distinctive orange latex.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • Chelidonium majus is often found growing in damp, shaded areas and near walls.
  • The bright yellow flowers of Chelidonium majus bloom from late spring to autumn.
  • Herbalists have historically used extracts from Chelidonium majus for various purposes.

Advanced Usage

• In Botanical Context: The name is used in its full binomial form () to specify the species precisely within the genus , distinguishing it from any other related species.
  • The study focused on the alkaloid content of Chelidonium majus.
• As a Common Name Referent: The scientific name is used to avoid confusion with lesser celandine (), which is a different plant entirely.
  • For clarity, the pharmacist referred to the herb by its scientific name, Chelidonium majus.

Variants and Related Words

• Greater Celandine (n): The most widely used common name for .
• Tetterwort (n): An archaic common name for , derived from its historical use for skin conditions.
• Chelidonium (n): The genus name to which this species belongs.

Synonyms

• Greater celandine
• Tetterwort
• Swallowwort (Note: This common name is also used for some other plants, which can cause confusion.)

Notes on Meaning

• The term refers specifically to the biological species. It does not have different meanings in the way common words do, but its reference is fixed within scientific and botanical nomenclature.

Noun

1. perennial herb with branched woody stock and bright yellow flowers