1. noun /ˈmædə/
a) A herbaceous plant, Rubia tinctorum, native to Asia, cultivated for a red-purple dye obtained from the root.
b) The root of the plant, used as a medicine or a dye.
2. adjective /ˈmædə/
Of a deep reddish purple colour, like that of the dye.
See Also: alizarin
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