clover

noun

clo·​ver ˈklō-vər How to pronounce clover (audio)
1
: any of a genus (Trifolium) of low leguminous herbs having trifoliolate leaves and flowers in dense heads and including many that are valuable for forage and attractive to bees
2
: any of various related plants (as of the genera Melilotus, Lespedeza, or Medicago) of the legume family
Phrases
in clover or less commonly in the clover
: in prosperity or in pleasant circumstances

Examples of clover in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Look for robinia or clover honey, as these have the most research to support them for heart health.12 Blood sugar regulation: Because of its low to medium GI, honey doesn't cause blood sugar levels to increase to quite the same extent that sugar does. Megan Nunn, Verywell Health, 23 May 2025 Goldsmith has turned the most popular charms — including a smiling face and four leaf clover — into maxi designs meant to be worn dangling from a chain — no locket required. Samantha Conti, Footwear News, 5 June 2025 Sometimes, a low-growing plant, clover, can crop up among the grass. Lauren David, Southern Living, 11 May 2025 My favorite combination is unsalted Irish Kerrygold butter mixed paired with clover honey and topped with coarse salt. Cathy Thomas, Orange County Register, 11 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for clover

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Old English clāfre; akin to Old High German klēo clover

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of clover was before the 12th century

Cite this Entry

“Clover.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/clover. Accessed 9 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

clover

noun
clo·​ver ˈklō-vər How to pronounce clover (audio)
: any of a genus of herbs of the legume family that have leaves with three leaflets and flowers in dense heads and that include many plants valuable for forage and as a source of nectar for bees
also : any of various related plants

More from Merriam-Webster on clover

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