fumitory

noun

fu·​mi·​to·​ry ˈfyü-mə-ˌtȯr-ē How to pronounce fumitory (audio)
: any of a genus (Fumaria of the family Fumariaceae, the fumitory family) of erect or climbing herbs
especially : a common European herb (F. officinalis)

Word History

Etymology

Middle English fumeterre, from Anglo-French, from Medieval Latin fumus terrae, literally, smoke of the earth, from Latin fumus + terrae, genitive of terra earth — more at terrace entry 1

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of fumitory was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near fumitory

Cite this Entry

“Fumitory.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fumitory. Accessed 20 Mar. 2023.

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