valerian, n. [LL. valeriana, perhaps from some person named Valerius, or fr. L. valere to be strong. powerful, on account of its medicinal virtues: cf. F. valériane.].

Any plant of the genus Valeriana. The root of the officinal valerian (Valeriana officinalis) has a strong smell, and is much used in medicine as an antispasmodic. [1913 Webster]

Greek valerian (Bot.), a plant (Polemonium cæruleum) with blue or white flowers, and leaves resembling those of the officinal valerian.

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OXFORD DICTIONARY

valerian, n.
1 any of various flowering plants of the family Valerianaceae.
2 the root of any of these used as a medicinal sedative.

Idiom

common valerian
1 a valerian, Valeriana officinalis, with pink or white flowers and a strong smell liked by cats: also called SETWALL.
2 the root of this used as a medicinal sedative.

Etymology

ME f. OF valeriane f. med.L valeriana (herba), app. fem. of Valerianus of Valerius

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