Saf″flow′er (?), n. [F. safleur, saflor, for safran, influenced by fleur flower. See Saffron, and Flower.] 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.