water willow

noun

1

: any of several plants that thrive in wet areas and are felt to resemble willows: such as

a(1)

: purple loosestrife

(2)

: swamp loosestrife

b

: fireweed sense b

c

: a plant of the genus Justicia

especially : a North American rhizomatous plant (J. americana) that has slender elongated leaves and dense capitate to elliposidal inflorescences with pale violet or white flowers

2

: any of several willows that thrive in wet areas

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