herb Paris

noun

, plural herbs Paris.

1. a European plant, Paris quadrifolia, of the lily family, formerly used in medicine.

herb Paris

noun

1. a Eurasian woodland plant, Paris quadrifolia, with a whorl of four leaves and a solitary yellow flower: formerly used medicinally: family Trilliaceae

Word History and Origins

Origin of herb Paris¹

First recorded in 1560–70; by folk etymology with Paris, France; possibly from Medieval Latin herba paris “herb of a pair, of a couple” (referring to the regularity of the leaves and flowers); of uncertain origin

Word History and Origins

Origin of herb Paris¹

C16: from Medieval Latin herba paris, literally: herb of a pair: so called because the four leaves on the stalk look like a true lovers' knot; associated in folk etymology with Paris, France