lily of the valley

noun phrase

: a low perennial herb (Convallaria majalis) of the lily family that has usually two large oblong lanceolate leaves and a raceme of fragrant nodding bell-shaped white flowers

Examples of lily of the valley in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The floral fragrance blends citrusy bergamot, lily of the valley, and Philosophy's signature musk (which is at the base of most of the brand's perfumes). —Anamaria Glavan, Allure, 14 June 2024

While structured and dramatic, his sublime work is as still, soft, and delicate as a flower — Christian’s favorite, lily of the valley, is seen in the opening credit sequence, which weaves bloody war imagery with sewing, fabric, and flowers. —Carrie Wittmer, Vulture, 14 Feb. 2024

The fragrance is vibrant and delicately fruity, with notes of Sicilian mandarin, lily of the valley Vetiver and White Musk. —Nora Colomer, Fox News, 6 May 2024

Notes: Pink freesia, rose petals, lily of the valley, magnolia, fresh jasmine Sizes: 3.4 oz., 1.7 oz. —Ariana Yaptangco, Glamour, 24 Jan. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1563, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

lily of the valley

: a low herb that is related to the lilies and has usually two large oblong leaves and a stalk of fragrant flowers shaped like bells

Medical Definition

lily of the valley

noun

lily of the val·​ley ˈlil-ē-əv-t͟hə-ˈval-ē 

plural lilies of the valley

1

: an erect low-growing perennial herb of the genus Convallaria (C. majalis) that has two large oblong lanceolate leaves and a raceme of fragrant nodding bell-shaped white flowers and is the source of convallaria, convallamarin, convallarin, and convallatoxin

2

: the dried rhizome and roots of the lily of the valley used as a cardiac tonic