primrose

noun

prim·​rose ˈprim-ˌrōz 

: any of a genus (Primula of the family Primulaceae, the primrose family) of perennial herbs with large tufted basal leaves and showy variously colored flowers compare evening primrose

Examples of primrose in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

With their colorful, long-lasting blooms, polyanthus primroses are some of the earliest flowering plants in the garden and provide weeks of winter flowers indoors. —Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 13 Apr. 2026

Moist, rich, and slightly acidic Primrose Growers in hot climates often treat primroses as annuals and replace their plants every spring. —Lauren Landers, The Spruce, 6 Apr. 2026

Sand verbena spreads in patches of deep violet, while clusters of brown-eyed primrose dot sandy washes. —Jessica Chapel, Condé Nast Traveler, 11 Mar. 2026

Desert gold and brown-eyed primrose are appearing near Ashford Mill, along with sand verbena and fivespot. —Cierra Morgan, Los Angeles Times, 11 Mar. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English primerose, from Anglo-French, from prime first + rose rose — more at prime, rose

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing primrose

• evening primrose
• primrose path
• primrose yellow

Rhymes for primrose

• aloes
• arose
• bedclothes
• bestows
• boroughs
• buboes
• cargoes
• cocos
• compose
• crossbows
• demos
• depose

Kids Definition

primrose

noun

prim·​rose ˈprim-ˌrōz 

: any of a genus of herbs with large leaves arranged at the base of the stem and showy variously colored flowers in clusters on leafless stalks

Biographical Definition

Primrose

biographical name

Archibald Philip see rosebery