Merriam-Webster Collegiate Dictionary - wort

 I. noun  Etymology: Middle English, from Old English wyrt root, herb, plant — more at root  Date: before 12th century plant; especially an herbaceous plant — usually used in combination louse~  II. noun  Etymology: Middle English, from Old English wyrt; akin to Middle High German wurze brewer's ~, Old English wyrt root, herb  Date: before 12th century a sweet liquid drained from mash and fermented to make beer and whiskey