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Definition of "hyacinth" []

  • A bulbous Mediterranean plant (Hyacinthus orientalis) having narrow leaves and a terminal raceme of variously colored, usually fragrant flowers, with a funnel-shaped perianth. Also called jacinth. (noun)
  • Any of several similar or related plants, such as the grape hyacinth. (noun)
  • Greek Mythology A plant, perhaps the larkspur, gladiolus, or iris, that sprang from the blood of the slain Hyacinthus. (noun)
  • A deep purplish blue to vivid violet. (noun)
  • A reddish or cinnamon-colored variety of transparent zircon, used as a gemstone. (noun)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

Use "hyacinth" in a sentence
  • "A curiosity of the water hyacinth is that, in floating plants, the flower heads or inflorescences bend downwards one or two days after flowering,, submerging themselves in the water."
  • "Today, the hyacinth is found in more than fifty countries on five continents."
  • "Careful now, be sure water hyacinth is the only plant they'll eat."