Definition

Noun: * A Eurasian plant (Fritillaria meleagris) of the lily family, known for its distinctive bell-shaped, nodding flowers. The flowers are typically patterned with a checkered or veined design in shades of purple, maroon, or reddish-brown on a pale background. Historically, its shape and pattern were likened to the bells carried by lepers or the plumage of a guinea fowl.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • The guinea-hen flower is a rare and beautiful sight in spring meadows.
  • We planted a cluster of guinea-hen flowers, and their checkered patterns are fascinating.
  • The botanical guide explained that the guinea-hen flower thrives in damp grassland.

Advanced Usage

• As a subject of botanical study: The term is used in horticulture and botany to specifically identify this species within the genus .
  • The conservation project focuses on protecting the natural habitats of the guinea-hen flower.

Variants and Related Words

• Snake's head fritillary (n): A common alternative name for the same plant.
• Checkered lily (n): Another name describing its most distinctive feature.
• Fritillaria meleagris (n): The scientific Latin name.

Synonyms

• Snake's head
• Checkered daffodil (less common)
• Leprosy lily (historical, referencing the medieval leper bell comparison)

Related Phrases

• Spring bulb: The guinea-hen flower grows from a bulb and is categorized with other spring-flowering bulbs.
  • Like tulips and daffodils, the guinea-hen flower is planted as a spring bulb in autumn.

Noun

1. Eurasian checkered lily with pendant flowers usually veined and checkered with purple or maroon on a pale ground and shaped like the bells carried by lepers in medieval times; widely grown as an ornamental