mariposa

/ ˌmærɪˈpəʊzə; -sə /

noun

1. any of several liliaceous plants of the genus Calochortus, of the southwestern US and Mexico, having brightly coloured tulip-like flowers Also calledmariposa lilymariposa tulip

Word History and Origins

Origin of mariposa¹

C19: from Spanish: butterfly; from the likeness of the blooms to butterflies

Example Sentences

These fine old trees grow in groves, and of the nine or ten groves the Calaveras and Mariposa are the best known.

From Project Gutenberg

If only they would go to their study and quarrel about the Mariposa lily, or cactuses, or salix, or something.

From Project Gutenberg

Just out of Tehama we struck into a country whose features reminded us of the wooded tracts between Stockton and Mariposa.

From Project Gutenberg

Here for several days Alfonso tarried, grew stronger, and often walked with pretty Mariposa.

From Project Gutenberg

"My father gave it to me," was all that Mariposa would say about the ring as they separated for the night.

From Project Gutenberg