n 1  :  any of two genera (Gentiana and Dasystephana) of herbs belonging to a family (Gentianaceae, the gentian family) and having opposite smooth leaves and showy usu. blue flowers  2  :  the rhizome and roots of a yellow-flowered gentian (Gentiana lutea) of southern Europe that is used as a tonic and stomachic - called also gentian root  .
 
 
 
Published under license with Merriam-Webster, Incorporated.  © 1997-2024.