euphorbia

[ yoo-fawr-bee-uh ]

noun

1. any plant of the genus Euphorbia, comprising the spurges.

euphorbia

/ juːˈfɔːbɪə /

noun

1. any plant of the genus Euphorbia, such as the spurges and poinsettia: family Euphorbiaceae

Word History and Origins

Origin of euphorbia¹

1350–1400; Middle English euforbia for Latin euphorbea, an African plant named after Euphorbos, a Greek physician

Word History and Origins

Origin of euphorbia¹

C14 euforbia: from Latin euphorbea African plant named after Euphorbus, first-century ad Greek physician

Example Sentences

In my home garden, Arum italicum, Euphorbia cyparissus and Ranunculus ficaria, once purchased as desirable perennials, now run roughshod through less competitive plantings.

From Seattle Times

Euphorbia milii is a plant that can be loved but never liked.

From New York Times

“He was the most wonderful, thoughtful, and loving husband, a caring son, a wise brother, a strong friend, a brave veteran, a euphorbia enthusiast, a meticulous lighting technician, and a stickler for safety at work.”

From Los Angeles Times

Ascribed in the 19th century, the Latin name, Euphorbia pulcherrima, means “the most beautiful” of a diverse genus with a milky sap of latex.

From Washington Times

Ascribed in the 19th century, the Latin name, Euphorbia pulcherrima, means “the most beautiful” of a diverse genus with a milky sap of latex.

From Seattle Times