Texas sage

noun

1

: any of several salvias native to Texas: such as

a

: a perennial herb (Salvia texana synonym Salviastrum texanum) of Texas and adjacent northern Mexico having tufted hairy stems and blue flowers in close panicles

b

: scarlet sage sense b

c

: autumn sage

2

: barometer bush

Texas sage grows into a compact, rounded shrub, and regular pruning gives it a tortured appearance and interferes with flowering.

—Mary Wilhite, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 11 Sept. 2010

Word History

First Known Use

1892, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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