crocus
.
Searchable Lemmata: crocus (L), crocus (ME), cróch (Ir), crocus (MdE).
Alternate Forms: croci, crocum.
Definitions and Defining Citations:
1(n.)
Dye;
saffron, used for yellow dye.(circa 700)
1. Luteus color rubicundus, quod est croceus. Nam crocum lutei coloris est, ut (Virg. Ecl. 4,44): Croceo mutavit vellera luto. Menum [quod sit colore nigro; Graeci enim MELAN nigrum dicunt]. Masticinum [quod colorem masticis habeat]. Blatteum. Blavum. Mesticium.
[DOE ISID. Etym. (19,28,8)]
Sex: N/A Ceremonial: No
Body Parts: N/A.
Etymological Evidence:
Definite, Classical Latin from Greek.
Not to be confused with Medieval British Latin crocus, crocum, croca, from Middle English crok, cruk, a 'crook' or metal hook.
WF:
Etym Cog: cróch (Ir).
References:
