Saf·flow·er n.
  1. Bot. An annual composite plant (Carthamus tinctorius), the flowers of which are used as a dyestuff and in making rouge; bastard, or false, saffron.
  2. The dried flowers of the Carthamus tinctorius.
  3. A dyestuff from these flowers. See Safranin (b).
  Oil of safflower, a purgative oil expressed from the seeds of the safflower.
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  Car·tha·min n. Chem. A red coloring matter obtained from the safflower, or Carthamus tinctorius.
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  Carthamus tinctorius
       n : thistlelike Eurasian plant widely grown for its red or
           orange flower heads and seeds that yield a valuable oil
           [syn: safflower, false saffron]