Parma violet

noun

1

: a sweet violet widely cultivated for its pale lavender sweet-scented fully double flowers

2

or parma violet

a

: a moderate violet that is bluer and lighter than damson, bluer and paler than Roman purple, and paler and slightly redder than prelate

called also Parme, violet Parme

b

of textiles : a strong violet that is redder and lighter than pansy, redder, lighter, and stronger than royal purple (see royal purple sense 2), and lighter, stronger, and slightly redder than clematis

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