\Dar"nel\, n. [OE. darnel, dernel, of uncertain origin;
cf. dial. F. darnelle, Sw. d[*a]r-repe; perh. named from a
supposed intoxicating quality of the plant, and akin to Sw.
d[*a]ra to infatuate, OD. door foolish, G. thor fool, and Ee.
dizzy.] (Bot.)
Any grass of the genus {Lolium}, esp. the {Lolium temulentum}
(bearded darnel), the grains of which have been reputed
poisonous. Other species, as {Lolium perenne} (rye grass or
ray grass), and its variety {L. Italicum} (Italian rye
grass), are highly esteemed for pasture and for making hay.
Note: Under darnel our early herbalists comprehended all
      kinds of cornfield weeds. --Dr. Prior.