khesari
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun 1. A leguminous plant (Lathyrus sativus), also known as grass pea, cultivated in parts of Europe, Asia, and Africa. It is grown for forage, and its seeds are used for food and animal feed, particularly in India. Prolonged consumption of its seeds can be associated with a neurological disorder (lathyrism).
Usage
- Khesari is a hardy crop grown in arid regions.
- The khesari plant is valued for its drought resistance.
- Historically, khesari seeds have been used as a food source during famines.
Advanced Usage
- The term is often used in agricultural, nutritional, and public health contexts to discuss its dual role as a food source and a potential health risk.
- It is a specific common name for within the Indian subcontinent.
Variants and Related Words
- Grass pea: The most common English name for the same plant ().
- Chickling pea: Another English name for this species.
- Lathyrus sativus: The botanical (Latin) name for the species.
Synonyms
- Grass pea
- Chickling pea
- Blue sweet pea (Note: this can refer to other species as well)
Notes on Meaning
- The primary meaning refers to the plant species .
- The word strongly connotes its use as a famine food and its associated health implications due to the presence of a neurotoxin (ODAP).
Noun
- European annual grown for forage; seeds used for food in India and for stock elsewhere