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zanthoxylum

noun
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zan·​thox·​y·​lum

Definition of zanthoxylum

1a capitalized : a genus of widely distributed shrubs or trees (family Rutaceae) having odd-pinnate leaves, small greenish flowers with 2 to 5 pistils, and 2-valved fleshy capsules
b plural -s : any plant of the genus Zanthoxylum
2 or less commonly xanthoxylum plural -s : the dried bark of prickly ash or hercules'-club formerly used as a diaphoretic and stimulant

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History and Etymology for zanthoxylum

New Latin, irregular from xanth- + -xylum

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Dictionary Entries Near zanthoxylum

Zanthoxylaceae

zanthoxylum

Zantiot

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Cite this Entry

“Zanthoxylum.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/zanthoxylum. Accessed 20 May. 2022.

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