darnel

[ dahr-nl ]

noun

1. any of several grasses of the genus Lolium, having simple stems, flat leaves, and terminal spikes.

darnel

/ ˈdɑːnəl /

noun

1. any of several grasses of the genus Lolium, esp L. temulentum, that grow as weeds in grain fields in Europe and Asia

Word History and Origins

Origin of darnel¹

1275–1325; Middle English; compare French (Walloon) darnelle, probably < Germanic

Word History and Origins

Origin of darnel¹

C14: probably related to French (Walloon dialect) darnelle, of obscure origin

Example Sentences

The change in the plan of registration, he said, had been recommended by Sir Henry Darnel.

From Project Gutenberg

But in Shakespeare's time Darnel, like Cockle (which see), was the general name for any hurtful weed.

From Project Gutenberg

I know she likes me, for all her wincing; and I shall need some little private comfort, if I marry that ugly thing Darnel.

From Project Gutenberg

I shall set about Darnel immediately—a confounded exchange, for the Percy was certainly the finest girl in London.

From Project Gutenberg

The Tares sown amongst the wheat were probably the seed of the Darnel.

From Project Gutenberg