sage

sage

sage¹ [sāj]

adj.

sager, sagest [OFr < VL * sapius < L sapiens, wise, orig. prp. of sapere, to know, taste < IE base * sap-, to taste > ON safi, sap, sefi, mind]

1. wise, discerning, judicious, etc.

2. showing wisdom and good judgment [a sage comment]

3. Obs. grave or solemn

n.

a very wise person; esp., an elderly man, widely respected for his wisdom, experience, and judgment

sagely

adv.

sageness

n.

sage² [sāj]

n.

[ME sauge < OFr < L salvia < salvus, SAFE: from its reputed healing powers]

1. any of a genus (Salvia) of plants of the mint family, having a two-lipped corolla and two stamens: sages are cultivated for ornament, as the scarlet sage ( S. splendens) with brilliant red flowers, or for flavoring, as the garden sage ( S. officinalis) with aromatic leaves used, when dried, for seasoning meats, cheeses, etc.

2. any of various similar plants

☆ 3. SAGEBRUSH