jervine
noun
jer·vine
\ˈjərˌvēn, -və̇n\
Definition of jervine
-s
: a crystalline alkaloid C26H39NO3 related in structure to the steroids and found in the rhizomes and roots of white hellebore, American hellebore, and other species of the genus Veratrum
Read the Latest from M-W
There's more!
Love words? You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.
Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:
- More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
- Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
- Advanced search features
- Ad free!
Origin and Etymology of jervine
New Latin jervina, from Spanish yervina, perhaps from yervo vetch, chickpea (from Latin ervum) + -ina -ine
Seen and Heard
What made you want to look up jervine? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Writing? Check your grammar now!