1. Plural of calamus; a type of aromatic plant with sword-shaped leaves, or the fragrant root of such a plant used in perfumes and medicines.
Usage: Also called sweet flag or sweet cane.; The root has been used historically in traditional medicine and perfumery.
2. Plural of calamus; a writing reed or pen made from the stem of a plant, used in ancient times for writing on papyrus.
Usage: archaic; historical

Examples

• The calamuses grew along the riverbank, their tall leaves swaying in the breeze.
• Ancient scribes used calamuses to write on papyrus scrolls.
• The dried calamuses were ground into powder for use in traditional remedies.
• Perfumers valued calamuses for their warm, spicy fragrance.
• The botanist identified several species of calamuses in the wetland preserve.