spikenard
/'spaiknɑ:d/
Definition
Noun: 1. An aromatic plant: A historical term for a perennial herb (Nardostachys jatamansi) of the valerian family, native to the Himalayas, valued for its fragrant roots and rhizomes. 2. A precious aromatic substance: A costly, thick, and sweet-smelling ointment or perfume made from the oil of the spikenard plant, used in ancient times for anointing.
Usage and Examples
- Noun (Plant):
- The spikenard grows in the high mountains of Nepal and India.
- Ancient traders carried dried spikenard root over long distances.
- Noun (Ointment/Perfume):
- In biblical accounts, Mary anointed Jesus's feet with expensive spikenard.
- Spikenard was one of the most valued perfumes in the ancient Roman world.
Advanced Usage
- "Nard": A common shorter synonym for spikenard, especially when referring to the ointment.
- The alabaster jar was filled with pure nard.
Variants and Related Words
- Nard (n): A direct synonym for spikenard, particularly the aromatic preparation.
- Nardostachys jatamansi (n): The modern botanical name for the spikenard plant.
Synonyms
- Nard: The primary synonym.
- Ointment, unguent, perfume: General terms for the substance spikenard produced.
- Aromatic, fragrance: Words describing its key characteristic.
Related Phrases and Contexts
- "Anointed with spikenard": A phrase describing a ceremonial or honorific act from antiquity.
- The honored guest was anointed with spikenard.
- "Jar of spikenard": A common historical reference to the container for this valuable substance.
- She broke the sealed jar of spikenard.
Noun
-
an aromatic ointment used in antiquity
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