Obs. Also 6–7 fran(c)k(e. [f. FRANK v.] A name given to the plant Spurry, from its fattening properties; also frank spurry.
1578. Lyte, Dodoens, I. xxxviii. 56. This herbe [Spurry] is called in Englishe Francke, bicause of the property it hath to fat cattell.
1640. Parkinson, Theat. Bot., 562. Both the Dutch and we in England call it Spurry or Franck Spurry, for the causes aforesaid, but I do a little more explaine the names, in calling it Francking Spurrewort.
1659. Torriano, Spergola, the hearb Frank, Surrie, or Spurrie: it is good to fatten cattle.
