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Definition of nodding onion

nodding onion

Plural:nodding onions
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nodding onion Lexical Profile

• noun

1

North American A perennial wild onion species (Allium cernuum) native to North America, characterized by its distinctive downward-drooping cluster of pink or white flowers and an edible, strongly scented bulb.

Example

"During our hike through the Appalachian meadows, we spotted a patch of nodding onion blooming beautifully along the rocky slope."

Word Origin & Etymology

Named for its distinctive umbel (flower cluster) which bends downward sharply at the top of the stem, making the flowers appear to 'nod.' Its scientific name is Allium cernuum, derived from the Latin 'cernuum' meaning 'nodding' or 'drooping'.

Cite this Entry


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