mariposa lily

[ mar-uh-poh-suh, -zuh ]

noun

1. any lily of the genus Calochortus, of the western U.S. and Mexico, having tuliplike flowers of various colors.

Word History and Origins

Origin of mariposa lily¹

1880–85, Americanism; < Spanish mariposa butterfly, moth; so named because blooms were likened to butterflies

Example Sentences

Often they make a dainty meal off the blossoms of the fringed blue gentian, the mariposa lily, and the harebell.

From Project Gutenberg

The Mariposa lily's, perhaps, is the most classic petal in the Park.

From Project Gutenberg

There are now several kinds of Mariposa Lily in cultivation.

From Project Gutenberg

This Mariposa Lily is usually white, though delicate lilac blossoms are sometimes found.

From Project Gutenberg