Barbara's buttons

noun plural but singular or plural in construction

Bar·​ba·​ra's buttons

ˈbärb(ə)rəz-

: a plant of the genus Marshallia (family Compositae)

especially : a low-growing perennial herb (M. trinervia) sometimes cultivated and having purplish flowers in globose heads

Word History

Etymology

from the name Barbara

The Ultimate Dicitonary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now