MANDRAGORA Meaning and
Definition
-
Mandragora is a noun that refers to a plant species belonging to the Solanaceae family, commonly known as the mandrake. This perennial herbaceous plant is characterized by its large, fleshy, and often branched roots, which resemble a human figure. The scientific name for this plant genus is Mandragora and it encompasses several species, found primarily in the Mediterranean region and parts of Asia.
The mandragora plant has been associated with various myths, legends, and superstitions throughout history, giving it a prominent place in folklore and literature. It has a long history of medicinal and magical uses, with various parts of the plant (such as the leaves, flowers, and particularly the root) being believed to possess mystical and healing properties.
In ancient times, mandragora was believed to have aphrodisiac qualities and was used as a sedative and painkiller. However, caution was necessary, as the plant can be poisonous and cause hallucinations if used incorrectly. In addition to its medicinal applications, mandragora was also considered to have magical properties and was used in rituals and spells in certain cultures.
Today, mandragora is primarily valued for its historical and cultural significance rather than its medicinal uses. It is often depicted in art, literature, and popular culture, and remains a symbol of mysticism and enchantment.
-
The European mandrake, Mandragora officinalis, or Atropa mandragora, the mandrake of the Bible; its properties are similar to those of stramonium, hyoscyamus, and belladonna.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
-
The Latin form of the mandrake, which see.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for MANDRAGORA
- nandragora
- kandragora
- jandragora
- mzndragora
- msndragora
- mwndragora
- mqndragora
- mabdragora
- mamdragora
- majdragora
- mahdragora
- mansragora
- manxragora
- mancragora
- manfragora
- manrragora
- maneragora
- mandeagora
- manddagora
- mendragora
Etymology of MANDRAGORA
The word "mandragora" is derived from the Latin term "mandragoras", which is ultimately derived from the Greek word "mandrágora". In Greek, "mandrágora" denotes the plant commonly known as the mandrake. The word has a complex etymology, with various theories proposed:
1. One theory suggests that "mandrágora" is a compound word formed from the Greek words "mántis" (prophet) and "drán" (to see), implying that the plant has prophetic or hallucinogenic properties.
2. Another theory proposes that "mandrágora" comes from the Persian word "mardum-gīr" meaning "man-seizer", believed to refer to the plant's supposed powers to induce sleep or cause unconsciousness.
3.
Similar spelling words for MANDRAGORA
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
