lycoris
lycoris Lexical Profile
• noun
A genus of bulbous flowering plants in the amaryllis family, native to eastern and southern Asia, commonly known as spider lilies or surprise lilies because their striking flowers emerge after the leaves have died back.
"The vibrant red petals of the lycoris bloomed fiercely in the autumn garden."
A specific flower of the genus Lycoris, particularly noted in East Asian folklore and literature for its association with the afterlife and final goodbyes.
"In traditional Japanese culture, the red lycoris is often planted near graves and is strongly associated with partings."
• Rhymes for lycoris
Word Origin & Etymology
Named by English botanist William Herbert in 1821 after Lycoris, a celebrated Roman actress and mistress of Mark Antony, who was immortalized in the poetry of Virgil and Gallus.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.