clove
1 of 3noun (1)
ˈklōv 
: one of the small bulbs (as in garlic) developed in the axils of the scales of a large bulb
clove
2 of 3past tense of cleave
clove
3 of 3noun
ˈklōv
: the dried flower bud of a tropical tree (Syzygium aromaticum synonym Eugenia aromatica) of the myrtle family that is used as a spice and is the source of an oil
also : this tree
Word History
Etymology
Noun (1)
Middle English, from Old English clufu; akin to Old English clēofan to cleave
Noun
alteration of Middle English clowe, from Anglo-French clou (de girofle), literally, nail of clove, from Latin clavus nail
First Known Use
Noun (1)
before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above
Noun
13th century, in the meaning defined above
Phrases Containing clove
Kids Definition
clove 1 of 2
noun
ˈklōv
: the dried flower bud of a tropical tree used in cooking as a spice
clove
2 of 2past tense of cleave
Medical Definition
clove
noun
ˈklōv
1
a
: the pungent fragrant aromatic reddish brown dried flower bud of a tropical evergreen tree (Syzygium aromaticum) of the myrtle family (Myrtaceae) that yields clove oil
b
: a spice consisting of whole or ground cloves —usually used in plural
2
: the tree that is the source of cloves and is probably native to the Moluccas but is now widely cultivated in the tropics