burdock

noun

bur·​dock ˈbər-ˌdäk 

: any of a genus (Arctium) of coarse composite herbs bearing globular flower heads with prickly bracts

Examples of burdock in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The lush formula is incredibly hydrating thanks to burdock oil, which is rich in fatty acids and vitamins. —Reece Andavolgyi, InStyle, 27 Feb. 2026

The Hair Grain Extract formulation incorporates carefully balanced ingredients derived from botanicals like burdock root and cow’s milk, formulated to nourish the follicle while supporting the scalp’s protective and regenerative functions. —Yola Robert, Forbes.com, 5 Feb. 2026

Along the way, burdock burrs stuck to his pants and to the fur of his dog. —Carl Zimmer, New York Times, 9 Nov. 2025

Essiac tea is an herbal tea made from a blend of burdock root, slippery elm, Indian rhubarb, and sheep sorrel. —Lindsey Desoto, Health, 31 Aug. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

burdock

noun

bur·​dock ˈbər-ˌdäk 

: any of a genus of coarse herbs that are related to the daisies and have globe-shaped flower heads surrounded by prickly bracts

Medical Definition

burdock

noun

bur·​dock ˈbər-ˌdäk 

1

: any of a genus (Arctium) of coarse composite herbs bearing globular flower heads with prickly bracts and including one (A. lappa) that has an edible root used as a vegetable and in herbal medicine

2

or burdock root : the edible root of the burdock (Arctium lappa)

Herbalists use dried burdock as a diuretic and a blood-purifying agent.

—Kathryn Shattuck, The New York Times

called also lappa