alligator bonnet

noun

1
: either of two water plants of the genus Nymphaea:
a
: a yellow pond lily (N. sagittaefolia)
b
: a fragrant water lily (N. odorata)
2
: the flower or fruit of alligator bonnets

Word History

Etymology

so called from the appearance of the blossoms and its growth in the habitat of alligators

First Known Use

1851, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of alligator bonnet was in 1851

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Dictionary Entries Near alligator bonnet

alligator apple

alligator bonnet

alligator button

See More Nearby Entries 

Cite this Entry

“Alligator bonnet.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/alligator%20bonnet. Accessed 29 Nov. 2024.

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