Taraxacum
/təˈræks.ə.kəm/noun
A genus of flowering plants in the family Asteraceae, commonly known as dandelions.
Did you know?In medieval herbalism, dandelions were believed to have strong protective qualities and were often used in rituals to ward off evil spirits.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
ταραχή (tarakhē)
“disorder, disturbance, confusion.”
Late Latin
Latin
taraxacum
“the dandelion, derived from the Greek term.”
Old French
Old French
dandelion
“the term for the flower, influenced by its earlier Latin name.”
Middle English
Middle English
dandelion
“the flowering plant known for its yellow blooms and medicinal properties.”
Modern English
English
dandelion
“the common name for the plant, derived from the earlier forms.”