First Known Use: before 12th century
Dictionary
1clove
noun \ˈklōv\
Definition of CLOVE
: one of the small bulbs (as in garlic) developed in the axils of the scales of a large bulb
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Origin of CLOVE
Middle English, from Old English clufu; akin to Old English clēofan to cleave
Other Botany Terms
2clove
Definition of CLOVE
past of cleave
3clove
noun \ˈklōv\
Definition of CLOVE
: the dried flower bud of a tropical tree (Syzygium aromaticum syn. Eugenia aromatica) of the myrtle family that is used as a spice and is the source of an oil; also : this tree
Origin of CLOVE
alteration of Middle English clowe, from Anglo-French clou (de girofle), literally, nail of clove, from Latin clavus nail
First Known Use: 13th century
CLOVE[1] Defined for Kids
1clove
noun \ˈklōv\
Definition of CLOVE for Kids
: the dried flower bud of a tropical tree used in cooking as a spice
2clove
Definition of CLOVE for Kids
past of cleave
Medical Dictionary
clove
noun \ˈklōv\
Medical Definition of CLOVE
1
a : the pungent fragrant aromatic reddish brown dried flower bud of a tropical evergreen tree (Syzygium aromaticum) of the myrtle family (Myrtaceae) that yields clove oil b : a spice consisting of whole or ground cloves—usually used in plural
2
: the tree that is the source of cloves and is probably native to the Moluccas but is now widely cultivated in the tropics
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