Asiatic lily

noun

: any of various garden lilies derived from species (such as the tiger lily, Lilium lancifolium) native to Asia that typically have large, brightly-colored, unscented flowers in racemes or umbels

The first of the lilies to bloom are the shorter in stature sorts that are usually grouped together as the Asiatic lilies.

—Joan Lee Faust, New York Times, 13 Aug. 2000

Asiatic lilies, while not fragrant, can provide your garden with a vibrancy that few flowers can match.

—Sean Conway, Chicago Tribune, 11 Mar. 2011

Word History

First Known Use

1880, in the meaning defined above

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now