valerian

¹

[ vuh-leer-ee-uhn ]

noun

1. any plant of the genus Valeriana, as the common valerian V. officinalis, having small, fragrant flowers of white, lavender, or pink and a root that is used medicinally.
2. a drug consisting of or made from the root, formerly used as a nerve sedative and antispasmodic.

Valerian

²

[ vuh-leer-ee-uhn ]

noun

1. Publius Licinius Valerianus, died a.d. c260, Roman emperor 253–60.

Valerian

¹

/ vəˈlɛərɪən /

noun

1. Valerian260MRomanPOLITICS: hereditary ruler Latin name Publius Licinius Valerianus. died 260 ad , Roman emperor (253–260): renewed persecution of the Christians; defeated by the Persians

valerian

²

/ vəˈlɛərɪən /

noun

1. Also calledallheal any of various Eurasian valerianaceous plants of the genus Valeriana, esp V. officinalis, having small white or pinkish flowers and a medicinal root
2. a sedative drug made from the dried roots of V. officinalis

Word History and Origins

Origin of valerian¹

1350–1400; Middle English valirian < Medieval Latin valeriāna (herb) of Valeria (old Roman province, where plant is said to have been common); -an

Word History and Origins

Origin of valerian¹

C14: via Old French from Medieval Latin valeriana ( herba ) (herb) of Valerius, unexplained Latin personal name

Example Sentences

SugarBear Sleep Vitamins contain non-addictive melatonin, but also valerian root, lemon balm, magnesium, and other sleep-inducing herbs and minerals—which is a winning recipe for making me drowsy.

From The Daily Beast

Consequently, instead of hurrying straight to the Valerian army, I journeyed leisurely with Courtney to the capital.

From Project Gutenberg

The lieutenants of Valerian were grateful to the father, whom they esteemed.

From Project Gutenberg

Let them remember their own moderation, towards the unhappy Valerian.

From Project Gutenberg

Roman war with Persia; defeat and capture of Valerian by Sapor.

From Project Gutenberg

Whats your object in saying that, Valerian-181- Vladimiritch, she remarked, as though sympathetically.

From Project Gutenberg