Definition

Noun: * A Eurasian bulbous plant (Fritillaria meleagris) of the lily family, characterized by its solitary, bell-shaped, nodding flower. The flower is typically checkered or veined in patterns of purple, maroon, or pinkish-brown on a pale background.

Usage and Examples

• The snake's head fritillary is a beloved spring flower in cottage gardens.
• We planted a cluster of snake's head fritillaries along the edge of the path.
• The unique, checkered pattern of the snake's head fritillary makes it easily identifiable.

Advanced Usage

• The name "snake's head" refers to the flower's resemblance to a snake's head, especially when the bud is nodding.
• In horticulture, the snake's head fritillary is prized for its ability to naturalize in grassy areas.

Variants and Related Words

• Fritillaria meleagris: The botanical Latin name for the snake's head fritillary.
• Guinea-hen flower: A common alternative name for the same plant, also referring to its checkered pattern.
• Checkered lily: Another synonym describing its distinctive appearance.
• Fritillary: The broader genus name for this group of plants, which includes many species.

Synonyms

• Guinea-hen flower
• Checkered lily
• Leper lily (a historical name, referencing the medieval belief mentioned in the definition)
• (scientific name)

Notes on Meaning

The definition references the flower's historical association with the bells carried by lepers in medieval times, due to the perceived similarity in shape. This is an etymological or historical note rather than a primary modern meaning. The primary contemporary meaning is that of a specific ornamental garden plant.

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