Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Snapdragon Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐ŸŒบ
Add to dictionary

snapdragon

[หˆsnรฆp.drรฆ.ษกษ™n ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

botanical name

Snapdragon is a common name for plants in the genus Antirrhinum. These flowering plants are prized in gardens for their unique shape and vibrant colors. The name 'snapdragon' is derived from the flower's resemblance to a dragon's mouth that opens and closes when squeezed. They bloom in various colors such as yellow, pink, red, and white, making them popular in ornamental gardening.

Synonyms

Antirrhinum, dragon flower.

Examples of usage

  • I planted snapdragons along the garden path.
  • Snapdragons are a favorite among pollinators.
  • The children's favorite were the snapdragons in full bloom.

Translations

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

Origin of 'snapdragon'

The term 'snapdragon' dates back to the early 16th century. The first part of the word, 'snap', comes from an Old English word meaning 'to catch' or 'to grab'. This relates to the flower's unique shape, which resembles a dragon with jaws that seem to open and close with a gentle squeeze. The second part, 'dragon', is likely inspired by the mythical creature known for its fierce and fiery nature. The name reflects the whimsical nature of these flowers, while their botanical name, Antirrhinum, comes from the Greek words 'anti', meaning 'like', and 'rhinon', meaning 'nose', further emphasizing the shape and features of the blossoms.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,447, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.