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samphire

noun sam·phire \ ˈsam-ˌfī(-ə)r \
Updated on: 9 May 2018
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Definition of samphire

1 : a fleshy European seacoast plant (Crithmum maritimum) of the carrot family that is sometimes pickled
2 : a common glasswort (Salicornia europaea) that is sometimes pickled

Recent Examples of samphire from the Web

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'samphire.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Origin and Etymology of samphire

alteration of earlier sampiere, from Middle French (herbe de) Saint Pierre, literally, St. Peter's herb

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