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Definition of bearded iris

bearded iris

Plural:bearded irises
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bearded iris Lexical Profile

• noun

1

Any of numerous complex hybrid plants of the genus Iris, developed primarily from European and Asian species, distinguished by large, colorful flowers that feature a prominent, fuzzy, caterpillar-like strip of hairs (the "beard") along the center of the lower drooping petals.

Example

"The gardener planted a striking border of deep purple bearded irises along the edge of the stone pathway."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for bearded iris

• Nearby Words

bear river
bearberry
bearded dragon
bearded iris
bearded seal
beas
beatbox

Word Origin & Etymology

The name references the caterpillar-like fuzzy appendage on the flower's lower petals (the "beard"). "Iris" derives from the Greek word for rainbow, representing the wide variety of colors the flowers exhibit.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Bearded iris. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 14, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/bearded iris
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