camomile Definition

camomile
chamomile
noun camomiles (plural in sense 1 only)

1. A strongly scented perennial plant, native to Europe and SW Asia, which has finely divided leaves, and daisy-like flower-heads consisting of outer white ray florets and inner yellow disc florets.
2. The dried crushed flowers or leaves of this plant, used for their soothing medicinal properties, especially in the form of a herbal tea, or added to some types of shampoo.

Etymology: 14c: French, from Latin chamomilla, from Greek chamaimelon earth apple (from the smell of the flowers).