Crinum

/ˈkraɪ.nəm/ noun

Definition

A genus of bulbous plants with long, strap-like leaves and clusters of fragrant flowers, native to warm regions.

Etymology

From Greek 'krinon' (lily), the plant was named for its lily-like flowers; used as the scientific genus name.

Kelly Says

Despite being named 'crinum' (from the Greek word for lily), crinum plants are actually related to amaryllis, not lilies—a reminder that early plant classifications were based on appearance rather than genetics, so scientific names sometimes preserve old, not-quite-accurate observations.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.