Search Dictionary
Definition of yellow pimpernel
yellow pimpernel
Plural:yellow pimpernels
yellow pimpernel Lexical Profile
CEFR
C1
Grade
11
Tier
3
Usage
Rare
• noun
1
European A low-growing, evergreen perennial plant of the primrose family, native to Europe and characterized by creeping stems, opposite leaves, and bright, star-shaped yellow flowers commonly found in damp woodlands.
Example
"While walking through the damp woodland, the botanist spotted a patch of yellow pimpernel growing near the stream."
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
The word 'pimpernel' entered Middle English from the Old French 'pimpernelle', which likely derived from the Vulgar Latin '*pipinella', possibly referring to its pepper-like leaves. The modifier 'yellow' distinguishes this specific plant from the related scarlet pimpernel.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.
180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Yellow pimpernel. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 15, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/yellow pimpernel