n.1 any plant of the genus Gentiana or Gentianella, found esp. in mountainous regions, and having usu. vivid blue flowers.
2 (in full gentian bitter) a liquor extracted from the root of the gentian.
Phrases and idioms:
gentian violet a violet dye used as an antiseptic, esp. in the treatment of burns.
Etymology: OE f. L gentiana f. Gentius king of Illyria