larkspur

noun

lark·​spur ˈlärk-ˌspər How to pronounce larkspur (audio)
1
2
: any of the delphiniums that are annuals, have the upper two petals of the corolla united and the bottom two missing, are now often placed in a separate genus (Consolida), and include several widely cultivated forms

Examples of larkspur in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The informal gardens — they are often seen in Carl Larsson’s paintings of family life — grow daylilies, globe thistles, larkspurs, coneflowers and many other types of blooms, along with trees and shrubbery, and a kitchen garden that all represent specimens that were found in the late 19th century. Jeanine Barone, Forbes.com, 1 May 2025 Because of their similar needs, larkspur and pansies also make great companion plants for ranunculus. Claire Hoppe Norgaard, Better Homes & Gardens, 25 Mar. 2025 The Lego Icons Wildflower Bouquet includes 16 adjustable stems and features eight species of wildflowers, including cornflower, lavender, Welsh poppies, lupins, larkspurs, gerbera daisies, cow parsley, and leatherleaf ferns. Nneya Richards, Parents, 5 Nov. 2024 The flowers range from delicate snow lilies and fairy slipper orchids to dwarf larkspur and Colorado blue columbines, the state flower. Evie Carrick, Travel + Leisure, 23 Apr. 2024 See All Example Sentences for larkspur

Word History

First Known Use

1578, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of larkspur was in 1578

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Cite this Entry

“Larkspur.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/larkspur. Accessed 14 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

larkspur

noun
lark·​spur ˈlärk-ˌspər How to pronounce larkspur (audio)
: delphinium
especially : a cultivated delphinium grown for its stalks of showy blue, pink, or white flowers

Medical Definition

larkspur

noun
lark·​spur ˈlärk-ˌspər How to pronounce larkspur (audio)
1
2
a
: any of various annual Eurasian herbaceous plants (genus Consolida) that were formerly placed in the same genus as the delphiniums
b
: the dried seeds of a European larkspur (Consolida ajacis synonym Delphinium ajacis) used especially in a topical preparation to kill head lice

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