n. one of many subfamilies into which some classification systems subdivide the
n. [ Cf. F. colchicine. ] (Chem.) A powerful vegetable alkaloid,
n. [ L., a plant with a poisonous root, fr. Colchicus Colchian, fr. Colchis, Gr. &unr_;, an ancient province in Asia, east of the Black Sea, where was the home of Media the sorceress. ] (Bot.) A genus of bulbous-rooted plants found in many parts of Europe, including the meadow saffron. [ 1913 Webster ]
☞ Preparations made from the poisonous bulbs and seeds, and perhaps from the flowers, of the Colchicum autumnale (meadow saffron) are used as remedies for gout and rheumatism. [ 1913 Webster ]