Main Entry: loose·strife

Pronunciation: \ˈlü(s)-ˌstrīf\

Function: noun

Etymology: intended as translation of Greek lysimacheios loosestrife (as if from lysis act of loosing + machesthai to fight) — more at lysis

Date: 1548

1 : any of a genus (Lysimachia) of plants of the primrose family with leafy stems and usually yellow or white flowers
2 : any of a genus (Lythrum, family Lythraceae, the loosestrife family) of herbs having entire leaves and including some with showy spikes of purple flowers; especially : purple loosestrife