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Gladiola Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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gladiola

[ˈɡlædɪoʊlə ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

flower type

Gladiola, commonly known as gladiolus, refers to a genus of flowering plants in the iris family. These plants are characterized by their tall flower spikes and colorful blooms, which can vary in color from white to deep purple. Gladioluses are popular in gardens and floral arrangements due to their striking appearance and variety. They are often grown as cut flowers and have a long vase life. The blooms typically open in succession from the bottom upwards, creating a cascading effect.

Synonyms

gladiolus, sword lily.

Examples of usage

  • I planted a row of gladiolas in my garden.
  • The bouquet included vibrant gladiolas and daisies.
  • She won first prize for her gladiola display at the flower show.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In the language of flowers, gladioli symbolize strength and integrity, often given to someone to express admiration.
  • These flowers are associated with the month of August, serving as a birth flower, reflecting joy and sincerity.

Botanical Characteristics

  • Gladioli grow from corms, which are bulb-like structures that store nutrients and help the plant survive in various conditions.
  • They can reach heights of up to 4 feet and feature multiple flowers that bloom sequentially from the bottom up.

Historical Uses

  • Historically, gladioli have been cultivated for centuries, with evidence of their use in ancient Roman gardens as ornamental plants.
  • During the Victorian era, they were popular among gardeners and were often featured in floral arrangements at events.

Pop Culture

  • Gladioli have appeared in literature and art, often symbolizing beauty and elegance in floral depictions.
  • In modern times, the gladiola has been celebrated in various gardening competitions, showcasing its beauty and diversity.

Origin of 'gladiola'

Main points about word origin

  • The name 'gladiola' comes from the Latin word 'gladius,' which means 'sword,' referring to the shape of its leaves.
  • The plural form 'gladioli' reflects its Latin roots and is commonly used in botanical discussions.

The word 'gladiola' is derived from the Latin word 'gladius,' meaning 'sword,' due to the sword-like shape of its leaves. The genus Gladiolus was first described by the botanist Carl Linnaeus in the 18th century. Gladiolus species are native to Europe, Africa, and the Mediterranean region, and they have been cultivated and hybridized extensively, leading to the wide variety of forms and colors available today. Historically, gladiolas have been associated with the gladiators of ancient Rome, symbolizing strength and integrity. The term 'gladiolus' was first used in the context of botanical classification in the early 1800s, marking its establishment in horticulture.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #42,586, this word is among the least frequently used in common English. Understanding it can be beneficial for comprehensive language mastery, but it's not essential for most learners.