snowdrop

American  

[snoh-drop] / ˈsnoʊˌdrɒp /

noun

1. any of several early-blooming bulbous plants belonging to the genus Galanthus, of the amaryllis family, native to Eurasia, especially G. nivalis, having drooping white flowers with green markings.

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snowdrop British  

/ ˈsnəʊˌdrɒp /

noun

1. any of several amaryllidaceous plants of the Eurasian genus Galanthus, esp G. nivalis, having drooping white bell-shaped flowers that bloom in early spring

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Usage

What does snowdrop mean? A snowdrop is a small, fragrant, white, bell-shaped flower with green markings.The name snowdrop is also used for any plant in the genus Galanthus. The different members of the genus Galanthus vary in size. The scientific name of the common snowdrop flower is Galanthus nivalis. Snowdrops are known for blooming in early spring. They are popularly cultivated for use in bouquets.The snowdrop is one of the January birth flowers (a flower that’s associated with a particular month in the same way as a birthstone).Example: Look at all the snowdrops blooming in the meadow.

Etymology

Origin of snowdrop

First recorded in 1655–65; snow + drop

Example Sentences

At the base of a steep hill directly below the house, Orpello points out freshly cleared areas where long-dormant spring blooms, snowdrops, snowflakes, Virginia bluebells, trillium and hesperis have returned after decades underground.

From Washington Post

This is how species such as spring beauties and snowdrops can pop up even when it’s still frigid outside — they’re using last year’s energy.

From Washington Post

Visit this particular garden weekly to see successive spring flowers bloom, starting with six species of snowdrops and, later, a particularly attractive saucer magnolia.

From New York Times

On social media, Nicola Sturgeon was among many who shared an image of snowdrops to remember those who died in the Perthshire town.

From BBC

Check the label and do your homework, and you, too, can have snowdrops all winter.

From Seattle Times