pimpernel

noun

pim·​per·​nel ˈpim-pər-ˌnel How to pronounce pimpernel (audio)
-pər-nəl
: any of a genus (Anagallis) of herbs of the primrose family
especially : scarlet pimpernel

Examples of pimpernel in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Scarlet pimpernel is also sometimes called poison chickweed. Arkansas Online, 22 Mar. 2021 Scarlet pimpernel has a prostrate and spreading habit and without blooms is often mistaken for chickweed. Arkansas Online, 22 Mar. 2021

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'pimpernel.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Middle English pimpernele, from Anglo-French, from Late Latin pimpinella, a medicinal herb

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of pimpernel was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near pimpernel

Cite this Entry

“Pimpernel.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pimpernel. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

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