Definition

1. Noun:
   • A type of woody vine: "derris" refers to any of various usually woody climbing plants belonging to the genus Derris, which are native to tropical Asia.
   • Source of rotenone: The roots of these plants yield rotenone, a substance used as an insecticide and piscicide (fish poison).

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The farmers cultivated derris for its natural pesticidal properties.
  • Rotenone, extracted from derris root, is a potent insecticide.

Advanced Usage

• "Derris root": Specifically refers to the root of the derris plant, which is the part processed to obtain rotenone.
  • The active compound is derived from dried and powdered derris root.

Variants and Related Words

• Derris elliptica (n): A specific, commonly cultivated species within the genus, known for its high rotenone content.
• Rotenone (n): The chemical compound extracted from derris roots, used as an insecticide and fish poison.

Synonyms

• Tuba root: A common name for derris root, particularly in Southeast Asia.
• Fish poison vine: A descriptive name highlighting one of its traditional uses.

Notes on Meaning

The word "derris" specifically denotes the plant genus. Its primary significance lies in its economic and traditional use as a source of rotenone, not merely as a general vine. It is not typically used in everyday conversation but is a technical term in botany, agriculture, and ethnobotany.

Noun

1. any of various usually woody vines of the genus Derris of tropical Asia whose roots yield the insecticide rotenone; several are sources of native fish and arrow poisons