Word Study
safflower
CIDE DICTIONARY
safflower, n. [F. safleur, saflor, for safran, influenced by fleur flower. See Saffron, and Flower.].
- An annual composite plant (
Carthamus tinctorius ), the flowers of which are used as a dyestuff and in making rouge; bastard, or false, saffron. [1913 Webster] - The dried flowers of the
Carthamus tinctorius . [1913 Webster] - A dyestuff from these flowers. See Safranin
(b) . [1913 Webster]
OXFORD DICTIONARY
safflower, n.
1 a a thistle-like plant, Carthamus tinctorius, yielding a red dye. b its dried petals.
2 a dye made from these, used in rouge etc.
1 a a thistle-like plant, Carthamus tinctorius, yielding a red dye. b its dried petals.
2 a dye made from these, used in rouge etc.
Etymology
Du. saffloer or G Safflor f. OF saffleur f. obs. It. saffiore, of unkn. orig.
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