Definition of Parma violet
1 : a sweet violet widely cultivated for its pale lavender sweet-scented fully double flowers
2 or parma violet
a : a moderate violet that is bluer and lighter than damson, bluer and paler than Roman purple, and paler and slightly redder than prelate
— called also Parme, violet Parme
b of textiles : a strong violet that is redder and lighter than pansy, redder, lighter, and stronger than royal purple (see royal purple sense 2), and lighter, stronger, and slightly redder than clematis
Comments on Parma violet
What made you want to look up Parma violet? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Test Your Vocabulary
Words of Snow and Ice Quiz
- Which of the following refers to thin, bending ice, or to the act of running over such ice?
Test your knowledge - and maybe learn something along the way.
TAKE THE QUIZ
Anagram puzzles meet word search.
TAKE THE QUIZLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridgedWords at Play
Ask the Editors
Word Games
- Words of Snow and Ice Quiz
A selection of words from the chillier parts of t...
Take the quiz - Name that Thing: Toys and Games Edition
It's all fun and games until someone beats your h...
Take the quiz - True or False?
Test your knowledge - and maybe learn something a...
Take the quiz - SCRABBLE® Sprint
SCRABBLE® fans, sharpen your skills!
Play the game
Share Parma violet