1. 1. A low-growing tropical American shrub (Cephaelis ipecacuanha) having roots and rhizomes that yield emetine.
   2. The dried roots and rhizomes of this shrub.
2. A medicinal preparation made from the dried roots and rhizomes of this shrub that is used to induce vomiting, particularly in cases of poisoning and drug overdose.

[Short for Portuguese ipecacuanha, from Tupi ipekaaguéne : ipeh, low + kaâ, leaves + guéne, vomit.]

The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition Copyright © 2007, 2000 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Updated in 2009. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.