Hilaria

1 of 2

noun (1)

Hi·​lar·​ia
hə̇ˈla(a)rēə,
hīˈ-
plural -s
: an imperial Roman festival of the cult of Cybele held on the vernal equinox to celebrate the renewal of life on earth in the spring symbolized by the resurrection of the god Attis

Hilaria

2 of 2

noun (2)

"
: a small genus of grasses of the southwestern U.S. and Mexico having a terminal spike with the spikelets in threes see curly mesquite

Word History

Etymology

Noun (1)

Latin, from neuter plural of hilaris

Noun (2)

New Latin, irregular from Auguste de Saint-Hilaire †1853 French botanist + New Latin -ia

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

Dictionary Entries Near Hilaria

Cite this Entry

“Hilaria.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Hilaria. Accessed 15 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!