henbane
/'hembein/
Definition
- Noun:
- A poisonous plant: "henbane" refers to a highly toxic, foul-smelling herb native to Europe and Asia, characterized by sticky, hairy leaves and dull yellow-brown flowers. It is a source of potent alkaloid drugs.
- The poisonous substance derived from this plant: "henbane" can also refer to the toxic extract or drugs (like hyoscyamine and scopolamine) obtained from this plant.
Examples of Usage
Noun (referring to the plant): The field was overgrown with dangerous weeds like henbane. Ancient herbalists sometimes used henbane in very small, controlled doses for its medicinal properties.
Noun (referring to the substance): The potion was said to contain henbane, which caused hallucinations.
Advanced Usage
- Historical/Medicinal Context: Henbane has a long history in European folk medicine and witchcraft, often associated with potions and poisons.
Variants and Related Words
- Hyoscyamus niger: The scientific (Latin) name for the common henbane plant.
- Nightshade family: Henbane is a member of the family, which includes other poisonous plants like belladonna (deadly nightshade) and mandrake.
Synonyms
- Poisonous herb: A general term for toxic plants.
- Stinking nightshade: An archaic common name for henbane, referring to its odor.
Related Phrases
- "Henbane seed": Specifically refers to the seeds of the plant, which are particularly toxic.
Noun
-
poisonous fetid Old World herb having sticky hairy leaves and yellow-brown flowers; yields hyoscyamine and scopolamine
Khám phá thêm
Các từ liên quan
Từ đồng nghĩa
Từ chứa "henbane"
Từ có nhắc đến "henbane"
