oxlip

[ oks-lip ]

noun

1. a Eurasian primrose, Primula elatior, having clusters of small yellow flowers on a long stem.

oxlip

/ ˈɒksˌlɪp /

noun

1. Also calledpaigle a primulaceous Eurasian woodland plant, Primula elatior, with small drooping pale yellow flowers
2. Also calledfalse oxlip a similar and related plant that is a natural hybrid between the cowslip and primrose

Word History and Origins

Origin of oxlip¹

First recorded before 1100, spelled oxsanslyppan

Word History and Origins

Origin of oxlip¹

Old English oxanslyppe, literally: ox's slippery dropping; see slip ³, compare cowslip

Example Sentences

Passages such as “I know a bank where the wild thyme blows, where oxlips and the nodding violet grows,” fail to summon the enchantments that the words evoke.

From Washington Post

In the countryside they can damage woodland plants such as oxlip and bluebells, while in towns and cities they can cause road accidents and wreck gardens, allotments and parks.

From BBC

Varieties of the primrose.—Linnæus was of opinion that the primrose, oxlip, cowslip, and polyanthus, were only varieties of the same species.

From Project Gutenberg

Her unfeigned delight at the primroses, oxlips, wild cherry bloom, and varying greens of the spring season made me think that her lament was not applicable to herself, just then, at any rate.

From Project Gutenberg

"I know a bank where the wild thyme blows Where oxlips and the nodding violet grows, Quite over-canopied with luscious woodbine, With sweet musk-roses and with eglantine."

From Project Gutenberg