n. 1 any of various flowering plants of the family Valerianaceae. 2 the root of any of these used as a medicinal sedative. common valerian 1 a valerian, Valeriana officinalis, with pink or white flowers and a strong smell liked by cats: also called SETWALL. 2 the root of this used as a medicinal sedative.
[ ME f. OF valeriane f. med.L valeriana (herba), app. fem. of Valerianus of Valerius ]