antholyza

noun

an·​tho·​ly·​za

an(t)thəˈlīzə

1

capitalized : a genus of southern African bulbous plants (family Iridaceae) with sword-shaped leaves and red and yellow flowers in 2-sided spikes

2

plural -s : a plant of the genus Antholyza

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, irregular from anth- entry 1 + Greek lyssa rage, rabies; from the gaping perianth, felt to resemble the open jaws of a rabid dog

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