n.1 any of various flowering plants of the family Valerianaceae.
2 the root of any of these used as a medicinal sedative.
Phrases and idioms:
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.
Etymology: ME f. OF valeriane f. med.L valeriana (herba), app. fem. of Valerianus of Valerius