eyebright

[ ahy-brahyt ]

noun

1. any of various plants belonging to the genus Euphrasia, of the figwort family, as E. officinalis of Europe, formerly used for treating diseases of the eye.
2. the scarlet pimpernel. pimpernel

eyebright

/ ˈaɪˌbraɪt /

noun

1. any scrophulariaceous annual plant of the genus Euphrasia, esp E. nemorosa, having small white-and-purple two-lipped flowers: formerly used in the treatment of eye disorders Also calledeuphrasy

Word History and Origins

Origin of eyebright¹

First recorded in 1525–35; eye + bright

Example Sentences

Mother Eyebright so was called both from the brightness of her eyes and her faith in that little simple flower, the euphrasia.

From Project Gutenberg

The Eyebright (p. 274) grows on heaths and downs, where it derives organic food from the roots of the neighbouring grasses.

From Project Gutenberg

"How funny she'd look, coming out of the coffee-mill, mewing and purring," said Eyebright.

From Project Gutenberg

Don't you come here sometimes and play shipwreck and polar bears, Eyebright?

From Project Gutenberg

You will all be shocked at this account, but I am not sorry to show Eyebright to you on one of her naughty days.

From Project Gutenberg