MANDRAKES

Noun

mandrakes

plural of mandrake

Source: Wiktionary


MANDRAKE

Man"drake, n. Etym: [AS. mandragora, L. mandragoras, fr. Gr. mandragore.]

1. (Bot.)

Definition: A low plant (Mandragora officinarum) of the Nightshade family, having a fleshy root, often forked, and supposed to resemble a man. It was therefore supposed to have animal life, and to cry out when pulled up. All parts of the plant are strongly narcotic. It is found in the Mediterranean region. And shrieks like mandrakes, torn out of the earth, That living mortals, hearing them, run mad. Shak.

Note: The mandrake of Scripture was perhaps the same plant, but proof is wanting.

2. (Bot.)

Definition: The May apple (Podophyllum peltatum). See May apple under May, and Podophyllum. [U.S.]

Source: Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary 1913 Edition



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Word of the Day

5 May 2025

UNEXPLOITED

(adjective) not developed, improved, exploited or used; “vast unexploited (or undeveloped) natural resources”; “taxes on undeveloped lots are low”


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Coffee Trivia

International Coffee Day (September 29) is an occasion to promote and celebrate coffee as a beverage, with events occurring in places across the world. A day to promote fair trade coffee and raise awareness for the coffee growers’ plight. Other countries celebrate this event on October 1.

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