primrose

noun

prim·​rose ˈprim-ˌrōz 

: any of a genus (Primula of the family Primulaceae, the primrose family) of perennial herbs with large tufted basal leaves and showy variously colored flowers compare evening primrose

Examples of primrose in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

In wind tunnel experiments, Chan and company tested how well hawkmoths located different scent sources, including their fake floral scent, a real flower, and their primrose perfume mixed with nitrate radicals and ozone in similar concentrations to what might be expected in an urban setting. —Popular Science, 8 Feb. 2024

In turn, this reduction would lead primroses to produce 28 percent fewer seeds, the scientists write. —Christian Thorsberg, Smithsonian Magazine, 12 Feb. 2024

The violet and primrose flowers also represent those born in February. —Olivia Munson, USA TODAY, 11 Jan. 2024

Plant Fill sunny windowsills with potted English primrose, available in shades of blue, brown, orange, peach, red, white, and yellow. —Deanna Kizis, Sunset Magazine, 17 Jan. 2023

Word History

Etymology

Middle English primerose, from Anglo-French, from prime first + rose rose — more at prime, rose

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing primrose

• evening primrose
• primrose path
• primrose yellow

Kids Definition

primrose

noun

prim·​rose ˈprim-ˌrōz 

: any of a genus of herbs with large leaves arranged at the base of the stem and showy variously colored flowers in clusters on leafless stalks

Biographical Definition

Primrose

biographical name

Archibald Philip see rosebery