Azedarach
/ˌæz.ɪˈdær.ək/noun
A tree of the genus Melia, especially the chinaberry or Persian lilac, known for its fragrant flowers and toxic berries.
Did you know?Azedarach is the source of the scientific name for the chinaberry tree, and its path into English runs through Arabic and Persian botanical tradition rather than any occult meaning.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Persian
Persian
āzād-darakht
“literally 'free tree' or 'noble tree' (a traditional tree name in Persian)”
Medieval Arabic
Arabic
azādirācht / azad-darakht
“a borrowed botanical name for the tree”
Late Latin
Latin
azedarach
“a learned botanical term for the tree”
17th Century
English
azedarach
“the azedarach tree, especially the chinaberry”