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Definition of dutchman's breeches
dutchman's breeches
Plural:Dutchman's breeches
• noun
1
North American A perennial spring-flowering woodland herb (Dicentra cucullaria) of the poppy family, native to eastern North America, characterized by finely divided fern-like leaves and nodding clusters of fragrant white and yellow blossoms shaped like inverted pantaloons.
Example
"In early April, clusters of Dutchman's breeches began blooming along the shaded limestone ledges of the forest trail."
Word Nuance & Usage
Although plural in form, "Dutchman's breeches" functions as both a singular and plural noun depending on whether one refers to a single plant or multiple specimens.
• Nearby Words
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Dutchman's breeches. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 17, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/dutchman's%20breeches