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Definition of jacobean lily
jacobean lily
Plural:Jacobean lilies
jacobean lily Lexical Profile
CEFR
C2
Grade
11
Tier
3
Usage
Rare
• noun
1
A bulbous plant of the amaryllis family, native to Mexico and Guatemala, characterized by a single, strikingly distinct, deep crimson-red flower that blooms in spring or early summer.
Example
"The botanical garden featured a stunning display of Jacobean lilies, whose brilliant red petals arched elegantly above their stems."
Word Nuance & Usage
Although commonly called a lily, the Jacobean lily actually belongs to the amaryllis family (Amaryllidaceae) rather than the true lily family (Liliaceae).
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
The name 'Jacobean' is believed to refer to the bright red flower's resemblance to the red cross emblem worn by the knights of the Order of St. James (Santiago, derived from the Latin Jacobus).
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Jacobean lily. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 13, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/jacobean lily