Definition

Noun: 1. A variety of daffodil (Narcissus papyraceus): A bulbous plant, specifically a type of narcissus, known for its clusters of fragrant, star-shaped, pure white flowers. It is commonly forced to bloom indoors during the winter months.

Usage and Examples

• Noun:
  • She planted several paper whites in pots to brighten the windowsill in December.
  • The sweet scent of paper whites is a classic sign of the holiday season.

Advanced Usage

• As a modifier: The term can be used attributively to describe other things that are a pure, bright white, similar to the flower's color.
  • The walls were painted a paper white, making the room feel very clean and bright.

Variants and Related Words

• Paperwhite narcissus: A fuller, more botanical name for the same plant.
• Narcissus papyraceus: The formal Latin/scientific name for the species.

Synonyms

• Narcissus: The broader genus name.
• Winter daffodil: A descriptive common name highlighting its blooming season.

Notes on Meaning

This term primarily refers to the specific flowering plant. Its use as a color descriptor ("paper white") is an extended, metaphorical usage based on the flower's characteristic hue.

Noun

1. a daffodil having star-shaped white blossoms; often grown indoors to bloom in the winter