alyssum

noun alys·sum \ə-ˈli-səm\

Definition of ALYSSUM

: any of a genus (Alyssum) of Eurasian herbs of the mustard family with small usually yellow racemose flowers —called also madwort

New Latin, from Greek alysson, plant believed to cure rabies, from neuter of alyssos curing rabies, from a- + lyssa rabies

First Known Use: 1548

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