sage
sage (sāj)
adjective sager sag′er, sagest sag′·est
- wise, discerning, judicious, etc.
- showing wisdom and good judgment a sage comment
- Obsolete grave or solemn
Etymology: OFr < VL *sapius < L sapiens, wise, orig. prp. of sapere, to know, taste < IE base *sap-, to taste > ON safi, sap, sefi, mind
noun
sage (sāj)
noun
- any of a genus (Salvia) of plants of the mint family, having a two-lipped corolla and two stamens: sages are cultivated for ornament, as the scarlet sage (S. splendens) with brilliant red flowers, or for flavoring, as the garden sage (S. officinalis) with aromatic leaves used, when dried, for seasoning meats, cheeses, etc.
- any of various similar plants
- ☆ sagebrush
Etymology: ME sauge < OFr < L salvia < salvus, safe: from its reputed healing powers
Sage (sāj)
Webster's New World College Dictionary Copyright © 2005 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
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