catnip
UK[ˈkætnɪp]US[ˈkætnɪp]
n
a strong-smelling plant of the mint family, with downy leaves and spikes of white or pinkish flowers that are attractive to cats.
n
the dried leaves and flowers of this plant, used as a stimulant or intoxicant for cats.
Etymology
the word 'catnip' is a transparent english compound, directly combining 'cat' and the shortened form 'nip' from 'nepeta'. the latin term 'nepeta' was the classical name for a fragrant, mint-like plant. when this plant was introduced to and cultivated in english-speaking regions, its potent effect on felines became its defining characteristic, leading to the straightforward descriptive name 'catnip'. this term perfectly illustrates how common names for plants often arise from a combination of their botanical heritage and their most notable property or association in the local culture.
Analysis
this is a compound word formed from two english words, 'cat' and 'nip'. 'cat' originates from old english 'catt', from late latin 'cattus'. 'nip' is a shortening of the plant name 'nep', from old english 'nepte', from latin 'nepeta', the name for catnip or a similar plant.
Examples
my cat goes wild for fresh catnip in the garden.
she stuffed the toy mouse with dried catnip.
catnip is a perennial herb that is easy to grow in sunny locations.