savin
UK[ˈsævɪn]US[ˈseɪvɪn]
n
A small Eurasian juniper (Juniperus sabina) with dark green foliage, whose shoots yield an oil formerly used in medicine.
n
The oil or dried tops of this plant, formerly used as a diuretic, emmenagogue, or abortifacient.
Etymology
The word "savin" entered Middle English from the Old French term "savine." This, in turn, was derived from the Latin botanical name "sabīna (herba)," meaning "Sabine (plant)." The name directly references the Sabine people of ancient Italy, indicating the plant's association with their region. Thus, the modern term for this specific juniper species is a direct geographical loan, preserving the name of the people among whom the plant was notably found or used.
Analysis
The word is a simplex loanword. Its spelling and form were adopted directly from its Latin source.
Examples
The oil of savin was once a common but dangerous ingredient in folk remedies.
A hedge of savin grew along the edge of the old garden.
Modern pharmacology has largely abandoned the use of savin due to its toxicity.