Definition

Noun 1. A perennial herbaceous plant: Gypsophila paniculata is a species of flowering plant in the family Caryophyllaceae, characterized by its tall, bushy growth and profusion of small, delicate flowers. 2. Common name: This plant is widely known by the common name baby's breath.

Usage and Examples

• is a popular filler flower in floral arrangements.
• The garden was adorned with the airy, cloud-like blooms of .
• For a classic look, florists often pair roses with .

Advanced Usage and Context

• Horticulture/Botany: In technical contexts, the full binomial name is used to specify this particular species within the genus . The genus name comes from the Greek words for "chalk" and "loving," referring to the plant's preference for alkaline, chalky soils.
• Floristry/Common Parlance: In everyday language, especially in floristry, wedding planning, and gardening, the common name baby's breath is almost exclusively used.

Variants and Related Words

• baby's breath (n.): The universally recognized common name for .
• Gypsophila (n.): The genus name, which includes other species besides .
• perennial (n./adj.): A plant that lives for more than two years; describing such a plant.
• filler flower (n.): A type of flower used in arrangements to add volume, texture, and fill space between focal flowers.

Synonyms

• baby's breath: The primary synonym.

Notes on Meaning

The term Gypsophila paniculata has a single, specific botanical meaning. It does not have idiomatic or phrasal verb uses. Its significance lies in its identification as a specific plant species, with its common name "baby's breath" being culturally significant in the context of weddings and floristry as a symbol of purity, innocence, and everlasting love.

Noun

1. tall plant with small lance-shaped leaves and numerous tiny white or pink flowers