Definition

Noun * Common tobacco plant: A tall, erect herb native to South America, characterized by large ovate leaves and terminal clusters of tubular white or pink flowers. It is the primary species cultivated globally for the production of tobacco leaves.

Usage Notes

• This is the scientific (Latin) binomial name for the plant species most commonly used to produce commercial tobacco.
• It is used in formal, scientific, agricultural, and botanical contexts.
• In everyday conversation, people typically refer to the plant simply as "tobacco."

Examples

• Scientific Context:
  • The study focused on the alkaloid content of Nicotiana tabacum compared to other species in the genus.
  • Most commercial cigarettes are made from the dried leaves of Nicotiana tabacum.
• Agricultural Context:
  • Farmers in the region have cultivated Nicotiana tabacum for generations.
  • This pesticide is approved for use on Nicotiana tabacum crops.

Advanced Usage

• The genus name honors Jean Nicot, a French diplomat who introduced tobacco to France in the 16th century.
• The species name is derived from the Taino word for the pipe or instrument used for inhaling smoke, which entered European languages via Spanish.

Variants and Related Words

• Tobacco (n): The common name for the dried leaves of prepared for smoking, chewing, or snuff.
  • He grows tobacco on his farm.
• Nicotiana (n): The genus name encompassing all tobacco plant species, including ornamental varieties.
  • She planted several Nicotiana species in her garden for their fragrant evening flowers.

Synonyms

• Common tobacco
• Cultivated tobacco

Related Terms (Scientific/Technical)

• Solanaceae: The nightshade family of flowering plants to which belongs.
• Nicotine: The primary addictive alkaloid found in the leaves of .

Noun

1. tall erect South American herb with large ovate leaves and terminal clusters of tubular white or pink flowers; cultivated for its leaves