The Collaborative International Dictionary
Allium Schoenoprasum
chive \chive\, chives \chives\, n. [F. cive, fr. L. cepa, caepa, onion. Cf. Cives, Cibol.] (Bot.) A perennial plant ( Allium Schoenoprasum), allied to the onion, having hollow cylindrical leaves used for seasoning. The young leaves are used in omelets, etc. [Written also cive.]
Syn: chive, cive, schnittlaugh, Allium schoenoprasum.
2. the bulbous herb Allium Schoenoprasum used fresh as a mild onion-flavored seasoning.