dog nettle

noun

1

: hemp nettle

2

: an annual dead nettle (Lamium purpureum) having deep green or purplish leaves, a hairy calyx, and a ring of hairs inside the slender corolla tube

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1931, in the meaning defined at sense 1

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now