How Do You Spell MANDRAKE?

1. The term "mandrake" refers to a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Solanaceae family, known scientifically as Mandragora officinarum. It has a stout, brown root with a forked shape resembling the human figure, which often splits off into two root branches. Native to the Mediterranean region and parts of Asia, the mandrake plant grows in well-drained soil and bears elliptical, dark green leaves with a glossy texture. It produces bell-shaped flowers of purplish hues, eventually giving rise to yellowish-orange berries that contain numerous small seeds.

   In folklore and mythology, the mandrake has held a significant place. With a long history associated with magic and superstition, the plant has been thought to possess various mystical powers and has been featured in numerous ancient texts and legends. Due to its root's human-like appearance, the mandrake has often been depicted as having magical qualities related to fertility, protection, and even counteracting witchcraft. Its roots were sought after for their alleged aphrodisiac and hallucinogenic properties, leading to its use in traditional medicine and rituals.

   It should be noted that the mandrake plant contains tropane alkaloids, which are highly toxic if ingested, making it potentially dangerous. Proper caution and understanding of its properties are essential when dealing with this plant. The term "mandrake" may also be used to refer to other similar plants or their roots that have comparable characteristics to the Mandragora officinarum and are often discussed in conjunction when exploring the historical or mythical attributes of this intriguing botanical specimen.

2. 1. Mandragora. 2. Podophyllum.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

3. A plant and its roots of several species to which fabulous qualities have been assigned; the mandrake of Scripture is a different plant, but what is uncertain.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for MANDRAKE

The word "mandrake" has its roots in ancient languages. It ultimately derives from the Hebrew word "dudá'im" (דודאים), mentioned in the Bible (Genesis 30:14-16). This Hebrew term refers to the "love apples" or "love plants" believed to increase fertility, which are often associated with the mandrake plant.

From Hebrew, the word passed into various other ancient languages:

- In Greek, it became "mandragoras" (μανδραγόρας), which later transformed into "mandragora" in Latin.

- The Latin term then crossed over into Old English as "mandragora" or "mandragore".

- Through French, it finally reached the modern English form of "mandrake".

Similar spelling words for MANDRAKE

Plural form of MANDRAKE is MANDRAKES