fleurs-de-lis
Noun (plural of fleur-de-lis): - A heraldic design: "fleurs-de-lis" refers to a stylized lily or iris flower, historically used as a symbol of French royalty and heraldry. - A botanical reference: In botany, the term can refer to plants of the genus Iris, particularly the species Iris pseudacorus (yellow iris) or other iris-like flowers.
- (A heraldic symbol of French monarchy.)
- (Botanical reference to iris flowers.)
- (A modern heraldic use.)
"The fleur-de-lis as a national emblem": Historically, the fleur-de-lis was the emblem of the French monarchy, representing purity, light, and the Virgin Mary.
- The fleur-de-lis appeared on the seals of French kings from the 12th century onward. (A symbol of royal authority.)
"Fleur-de-lis in architecture": The design is often used in decorative arts, such as ironwork, stained glass, and furniture.
- The wrought-iron gate was adorned with intricate fleurs-de-lis. (A decorative motif.)
Fleur-de-lis (singular noun): the singular form of "fleurs-de-lis."
- A single fleur-de-lis was embroidered on the cushion. (One stylized lily design.)
Fleur-de-lis (variant spelling): sometimes spelled fleur-de-lys.
- The French spelling "fleur-de-lys" is also used in English. (An alternative orthography.)
- Iris: a genus of flowering plants with showy flowers, often used as a botanical synonym.
- Lily: a common but less precise term; true lilies () are different from irises.
- Royal lily: a poetic term for the fleur-de-lis as a royal symbol.
"The fleur-de-lis of France": A phrase referring to the historical emblem of French royalty.
- The fleur-de-lis of France was replaced by the tricolor after the Revolution. (A symbol of monarchy.)
"To bear the fleur-de-lis": To be associated with French royalty or nobility.
- The knight's shield bore the fleur-de-lis, indicating his allegiance to the king. (A heraldic marker of loyalty.)