English Lexicon

Columbine

/ˈkɒl.əm.baɪn/
nounadjectiveCEFR C1 (Advanced)Top #14200 frequency
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Comprehensive Definitions & Senses

2 senses
As noun
  1. 1

    Any of various perennial plants belonging to the genus Aquilegia, characterized by bell-shaped flowers with distinctive spurred petals.

    "Wild red columbines bloomed brightly along the rocky mountain trail."
  2. 2

    A stock character in traditional Italian commedia dell'arte, typically depicted as a witty, flirtatious maidservant and Harlequin's lover.

    "The theatrical performance featured traditional masked characters including Harlequin and Columbine."

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Antonyms & Contrasting Words (1)

Linguistic Origin & Historical Etymology

Derived from the late Latin word 'columbinus' (dove-like), coming from 'columba' (dove), due to the fancied resemblance of the inverted flower petals to a cluster of doves. It entered Middle English via Old French in the 14th century, initially referring to the plant and later taking on other cultural associations.

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