Word Study
rhatany
CIDE DICTIONARY
rhatany, n. [Sp. ratania, rataña, Peruv. rataña.].
The powerfully astringent root of a half-shrubby Peruvian plant (Krameria triandra ). It is used in medicine and to color port wine. [1913 Webster]
OXFORD DICTIONARY
rhatany, n. (pl. -ies)
1 either of two American shrubs, Krameria trianda and K. argentea, having an astringent root when dried.
2 the root of either of these.
1 either of two American shrubs, Krameria trianda and K. argentea, having an astringent root when dried.
2 the root of either of these.
Etymology
mod.L rhatania f. Port. ratanha, Sp. ratania, f. Quechua rata{ntilde}a
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