prunella

prunella · noun¹

1. Latin · derived fromprunella
2. English todayprunella

From post-classical Latin prunella, from brunus + -ella, perhaps because of the plant's brown sepals.

prunella · noun²

1. Latin · derived fromprunella
2. English todayprunella

From post-classical Latin prunella, alternation of brunella (“infectious epidemic”), from brunus + -ella.

prunella · noun³

Probably a variant of prunello, with reference to the colour of the fabric. Compare French prunelle.

First known use, by meaning

• from 16th c. A member of the genus Prunella of herbaceous plants, the allheals.
• 17th–18th c. Any of various diseases characterised by inflammation of the mouth or throat.
• from 17th c. A smooth worsted or silk fabric, generally black, formerly used for making shoes and clergymen's gowns.