babiana

noun

bab·​i·​a·​na
ˌbabēˈanə,
-ˈä-,
-ˈȧ- also -ˈā-
1
capitalized : a genus of bulbous herbs (family Iridaceae) having showy red or yellow spicate flowers
2
plural -s : a plant of the genus Babiana

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Dutch babianer, from obsolete Dutch babiaen baboon (now baviaan), from Middle French babouin baboon; from the fact that its stems are eaten by baboons

First Known Use

1801, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of babiana was in 1801

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Dictionary Entries Near babiana

Cite this Entry

“Babiana.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/babiana. Accessed 7 Dec. 2024.

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