rattlesnake root

noun

1. any of certain composite plants of the genus Prenanthes, whose roots or tubers have been regarded as a remedy for snake bites, as P. serpentaria or P. alba.
2. the root or tuber.
3. the snakeroot, Polygala senega.
4. its root.

Word History and Origins

Origin of rattlesnake root¹

First recorded in 1675–85

Example Sentences

On this consideration we had provided three several sorts of rattlesnake root, made up into proper doses, and ready for immediate use, in case any one of the men or their horses had been bitten….

From Project Gutenberg

They have several plants, known by the names of rattlesnake root, rattlesnake weed, and snake root.

From Project Gutenberg

She took a root she called the rattlesnake root.

From Project Gutenberg