valerian

noun

1. any plant of the genus Valeriana, as the common valerian V. officinalis, having small, fragrant flowers of white, lavender, or pink and a root that is used medicinally.
2. a drug consisting of or made from the root, formerly used as a nerve sedative and antispasmodic.

noun

1. Publius Licinius Valerianus, died a.d. c260, Roman emperor 253–60.

noun

1. Also called: allheal any of various Eurasian valerianaceous plants of the genus Valeriana, esp V. officinalis, having small white or pinkish flowers and a medicinal root
2. a sedative drug made from the dried roots of V. officinalis

noun

1. Latin name Publius Licinius Valerianus. died 260 ad, Roman emperor (253–260): renewed persecution of the Christians; defeated by the Persians

n.

late 14c., from Old French valeriane, apparently from feminine singular of Latin adjective Valerianus, from the personal name Valerius (see Valerie); but Weekley writes, “some of the German and Scand. forms of the name point rather to connection with the saga-hero Wieland.”