Columbine: meaning, definitions and examples

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columbine

 

[ ˈkɒl.əm.baɪn ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

flower type

Columbine refers to a type of flowering plant belonging to the genus Aquilegia. These plants are known for their unique, often intricate flowers that can come in a variety of colors including blue, purple, red, and white. They typically bloom in spring and early summer and are attractive to hummingbirds and other pollinators. The name 'columbine' is derived from the Latin word 'columba,' meaning dove, which reflects the flower's shape resembling a cluster of doves. Columbines are often found in woodlands and meadows across North America and Europe.

Synonyms

aquilegia, granny's bonnet.

Examples of usage

  • The columbine flowers brightened up the garden.
  • She planted columbines for their exquisite beauty.
  • Columbine is a favorite among gardeners in spring.

Translations

Translations of the word "columbine" in other languages:

🇵🇹 columbina

🇮🇳 कोलंबाइन

🇩🇪 Columbine

🇮🇩 columbine

🇺🇦 колумбін

🇵🇱 kolumbina

🇯🇵 コロンバイン

🇫🇷 colombine

🇪🇸 columbina

🇹🇷 columbine

🇰🇷 콜럼바인

🇸🇦 كولومباين

🇨🇿 okolník

🇸🇰 kolumbín

🇨🇳 鸽子花

🇸🇮 kolumbina

🇮🇸 kolumbína

🇰🇿 колумбина

🇬🇪 კოლუმბინა

🇦🇿 kolumbine

🇲🇽 columbina

Etymology

The word 'columbine' has its roots in the Latin term 'columba', which means 'dove'. The name reflects the notion that the flower's shape resembles a group of doves gathered together. The genus Aquilegia, which encompasses columbines, has been cultivated since the medieval period, and its aesthetic appeal has been celebrated throughout history in various cultures. In medieval herbal traditions, columbines were often associated with protection and were believed to ward off evil spirits. The diverse colors and forms of columbine flowers captured the imagination of poets and artists, contributing to their prominence in gardens and folklore. As the popularity of columbines spread, their cultivation also became common in European gardens during the Renaissance, where they were admired for their delicate structures and vibrant hues.