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madder

(mad′ər)

noun

any of a genus (Rubia) of plants of the madder family, with petals fused to form a funnel-shaped corolla; esp., a perennial vine (R. tinctorum) with panicles of small, yellow flowers
1. the red root of this vine
2. a red dye made from this
bright red; crimson

Origin: ME mader < OE mædere, akin to ON mathra, Norw modra < IE base *modhro-, dye plant > Czech modrý, blue

adjective

designating a family (Rubiaceae, order Rubiales) of chiefly tropical, dicotyledonous herbs, shrubs, and trees, including bedstraw, bluet, coffee, and cinchona

adjective

mad

See madder in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun

a. A southwest Asian perennial plant (Rubia tinctorum) having small yellow flowers, whorled leaves, and a red root.
b. The root of this plant, formerly an important source of the dye alizarin.
c. A red dye obtained from the roots of this plant.
A medium to strong red or reddish orange.

Origin:

Origin: Middle English

Origin: , from Old English mǽdere

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