chives, n. [F. cive, fr. L. cepa, caepa, onion. Cf. Cives, Cibol.].
A perennial plant (Allium Schoenoprasum), allied to the onion, having hollow cylindrical leaves used for seasoning. The young leaves are used in omelets, etc. [1913 Webster]
the bulbous herb Allium Schoenoprasum used fresh as a mild onion-flavored seasoning. [WordNet 1.5]