clove

noun (1)

\ ˈklōv

Definition of clove

(Entry 1 of 3)

: one of the small bulbs (as in garlic) developed in the axils of the scales of a large bulb

clove

Definition of clove (Entry 2 of 3)

past tense of cleave

clove

noun

\ ˈklōv

Definition of clove (Entry 3 of 3)

: the dried flower bud of a tropical tree (Syzygium aromaticum synonym Eugenia aromatica) of the myrtle family that is used as a spice and is the source of an oil also : this tree

History and Etymology for clove

Noun (1)

Middle English, from Old English clufu; akin to Old English clēofan to cleave

Noun

alteration of Middle English clowe, from Anglo-French clou (de girofle), literally, nail of clove, from Latin clavus nail

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Time Traveler for clove

The first known use of clove was before the 12th century

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More Definitions for clove

clove

noun

\ ˈklōv

Kids Definition of clove

(Entry 1 of 2)

: the dried flower bud of a tropical tree used in cooking as a spice

clove

Kids Definition of clove (Entry 2 of 2)

past tense of cleave

clove

noun

\ ˈklōv

Medical Definition of clove

1a : the pungent fragrant aromatic reddish brown dried flower bud of a tropical evergreen tree (Syzygium aromaticum) of the myrtle family (Myrtaceae) that yields clove oil

b : a spice consisting of whole or ground cloves —usually used in plural

2 : the tree that is the source of cloves and is probably native to the Moluccas but is now widely cultivated in the tropics