Gender Feminine
Usage Various
Pronounced Pron. /ˌbɛl.ə.ˈdɑn.ə/(American English) /ˌbɛl.ə.ˈdɒn.ə/(British English)  [key·simplify]

Meaning & History

From the name of a toxic plant, also called deadly nightshade (species Atropa belladonna). The plant's name is of Italian origin, probably derived from Latin bladona "mullein plant" and altered through association with the Italian words bella "beautiful, fair" and donna "lady".

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Entry updated December 1, 2024