[ 'spʌɪknα:d ]
■ noun
1》 an expensive perfumed ointment much valued in ancient times.
2》 the Himalayan plant of the valerian family that produces the rhizome from which this ointment was prepared. [ Nardostachys grandiflora .]
Origin
ME: from med. L. spica nardi (see spike 2 , nard ), translating Gk nardostakhus .