Clavel

/kləˈvɛl/ noun

Definition

A carnation flower, particularly as used in Spanish and Portuguese contexts, or a reddish dye obtained from certain plants.

Etymology

From Spanish and Portuguese 'clavel,' derived from Latin 'clavellus' (small nail or peg, referring to the flower's appearance). Related to 'clava' (club, nail).

Kelly Says

The word 'clavel' reveals how the same flower inspired different names across European languages—the Spanish and Portuguese saw it as a little nail, while the English saw a pink flower and the French thought it looked like gillyflowers.

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