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Definition of allium

allium

/ˈæl.i.əm/
al · li · um

Plural:alliums
•
Adjective:alliaceous
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allium Lexical Profile

• noun

1

A bulbous plant of the genus Allium in the amaryllis family, native primarily to temperate climates of the Northern Hemisphere, which includes culinary staples such as onions, garlic, leeks, shallots, and chives.

Example

"The chef finely chopped a mix of alliums to build a deeply flavorful base for the soup."


2

An ornamental variety of the onion genus, widely cultivated in gardens for its tall, leafless stalks and striking, spherical clusters of star-shaped purple, white, or pink flowers.

Example

"We planted several tall alliums at the back of the garden border to add striking architectural interest in late spring."

Word Nuance & Usage

While botanically encompassing culinary staples like onions and garlic, in gardening contexts 'allium' frequently refers specifically to the ornamental varieties grown for their large, spherical flower heads.

• Rhymes for allium

Word Origin & Etymology

Derived directly from Latin 'allium', meaning 'garlic'.

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Allium. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 12, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/allium
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