polygala

[ puh-lig-uh-luh ]

noun

1. any plant of the genus Polygala, comprising the milkworts.

polygala

/ pəˈlɪɡələ /

noun

1. any herbaceous plant or small shrub of the polygalaceous genus Polygala See also milkwort

Other Words From

• pol·y·ga·la·ceous [pol-ee-g, uh, -, ley, -sh, uh, s, p, uh, -lig-, uh, -], adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of polygala¹

1570–80; < New Latin, genus name, special use of Latin polygala, for Greek polýgalon milkwort, literally, something very milky, equivalent to poly- poly- + -galon, derivative of gála milk; galacto-

Word History and Origins

Origin of polygala¹

C18: New Latin, from Greek polugalon, from poly- + gala milk

Example Sentences

I usually find it and the fringed polygala in bloom at the same time; the lady's-slipper is a little later.

From Project Gutenberg

Youth, after all, is a shamefaced and secretive season; like the fringed polygala, it hides its real blossom underground.

From Project Gutenberg

I must not forget to mention that delicate and lovely flower of May, the fringed polygala.

From Project Gutenberg

Its scientific name, Polygala, is derived from Greek and means “much milk,” and the plant was supposed to encourage lactation.

From Project Gutenberg

But the polygala is quite inodorous, while the guaco gives forth a strong aromatic smell, resembling valerian.

From Project Gutenberg