eryngium, n. [NL., fr. Gr. 'hry`ggion, dim. of 'h`ryggos eryngo; cf. L. eryngion, erynge.].
A large genus of umbelliferous plants somewhat like thistles in appearance, cosmopolitan in distribution. Eryngium maritimum, or sea holly, has been highly esteemed as an aphrodisiac, the roots being formerly candied. [1913 Webster]