Clove

/kloʊv/

Meaning & Definition

noun
The dried flower bud of a tropical tree, used as a spice.
She added a pinch of ground clove to the pumpkin pie for extra flavor.
A part of a bulb, especially in garlic, that can be separated and used individually.
I used one clove of garlic to enhance the taste of the sauce.
verb
To extract or prepare cloves from a bulb.
He deftly clove the garlic head to get the cloves needed for the recipe.

Etymology

From Middle English 'clove' (or 'clow'), from Old French 'clou', from Latin 'clavus' meaning 'nail' referring to its shape.

Common Phrases and Expressions

clove oil:
An essential oil derived from the clove plant, used in aromatherapy and dental care.
clove hitch:
A type of knot that is used in sailing and outdoor activities.
clove-studded:
Referring to food that is decorated or infused with cloves.

Related Words

Slang Meanings

A term used to refer to clove cigarettes, which are flavored with clove spice.
He prefers smoking cloves over regular cigarettes.
In some communities, 'clove' can refer to a person who enjoys distinct flavors or cultural spices.
She's a real clove; always looking for unique spices to incorporate in her cooking.