Definition

A dried flower bud from a tropical tree that is used as a spice, often found in cooking and baking.

Example

I added a clove of garlic to the stew for extra flavor.

Conversation

Have you ever cooked with clove?

Yeah, I used it in a recipe for spiced cookies last week.

Nice! I love how clove adds that warm flavor to dishes.

Totally! It's one of my favorite spices to use.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

Not a valid English word.

Example

Not available.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you know that some recipes call for you to clove the garlic before cooking?

Really? I usually just chop it up.

Yeah, it can add a different flavor if you clove it properly.

Root Explanation

Clove originates from Old French *clou*, meaning nail, which is derived from Latin *clavus*, also meaning nail. The word refers to the spice's shape, resembling a small nail.

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'clove' as referring to a spice that looks like a small 'nail' — that's why it's called a clove.

Visually Confused Words