alchemilla

noun al·che·mil·la \ ˌal-kə-ˈmi-lə \

Definition of alchemilla

1 capitalized : a genus of widely distributed perennial herbs (family Rosaceae) with compound serrate leaves and inconspicuous flowers — see lady's-mantle

2 plural -s : a plant of the genus Alchemilla

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Origin and Etymology of alchemilla

New Latin, perhaps from Medieval Latin alchymia alchemy; from the belief that the dew on the leaves of the plants is efficacious in alchemy

NEW! Time Traveler

First Known Use: 1526

in the meaning defined at sense 2

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