darnel

American  

[dahr-nl] / ˈdɑr nl /

noun

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

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darnel British  

/ 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

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Etymology

Origin of darnel

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

Example Sentences

The wheat and the darnel were opposite in character and consequences as light and darkness, but they were precisely alike in the manner of their growth.

From The Parables of Our Lord by Arnot, William

Yet for one that honestly essayeth to sow that which he would reap, an hundred shall sow darnel and look confidently to reap fine wheat.

From Joyce Morrell's Harvest The Annals of Selwick Hall by Holt, Emily Sarah

Axel's feelings, through the loss and through his anger, were like freshly prepared soil, and whatever seed fell therein, even were it darnel and cockles, must sprout up finely.

From Seed-time and Harvest A Novel by Reuter, Fritz

An acidulated fermented drink of the Arabs and Egyptians, made from millet seed and various astringent substances; also, an intoxicating beverage made from hemp seed, darnel meal, and water.

From Webster's Unabridged Dictionary (2nd 100 Pages) by Webster, Noah

The grains of the darnel are not so heavy as the wheat, and not so compactly set upon the stalk.

From The Parables of Our Lord by Arnot, William