Aconite
(noun)
A poisonous plant of the genus Aconitum, also known as monkshood or wolfsbane, with tall spikes of blue, purple, or white flowers.
Origin:
The word "aconite" is derived from the greek word "akoniton" which is the name of a poisonous plant.
Examples:
- The aconite plant is poisonous if ingested and can cause serious health problems.
- The aconite flowers have a tall spike of blue or purple flowers and are often used in gardens for their aesthetic value.
- The aconite root has been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments.
- Aconite is a key ingredient in some traditional Chinese medicine formulas.
- In Shakespeare's play Hamlet, poison is put into the ear of King Claudius by pouring juice of hebenon (henbane) and juice of aconite into his ear.