daffodil

noun

daf·​fo·​dil ˈda-fə-ˌdil How to pronounce daffodil (audio)
: any of various perennial bulbous herbs (genus Narcissus) of the amaryllis family
especially : one whose flowers have a large corona elongated into a trumpet compare jonquil, narcissus

Examples of daffodil 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.
Leave the Leaves Like daffodils, hyacinths, and other bulbs, tulips need their leaves to soak up some sun after blooming. Andy Wilcox, Better Homes & Gardens, 27 Apr. 2026 Bulbs like daffodils, tulips, and hyacinths are a simple, inexpensive way to get pretty blooms that return year after year. Michelle Mastro, Martha Stewart, 27 Apr. 2026 Covering the sarcophagus Yellow daffodils bloom beside wartime fortifications at the Chernobyl plant as workers in ordinary clothes, with badges and special permits, pass through the restricted zone. Hanna Arhirova, Los Angeles Times, 25 Apr. 2026 People of all ages gathered in the square, some arriving as families carrying spring tulips and daffodils. ABC News, 25 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for daffodil

Word History

Etymology

perhaps from Dutch de affodil the asphodel

First Known Use

1548, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of daffodil was in 1548

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Cite this Entry

“Daffodil.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/daffodil. Accessed 2 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

daffodil

noun
daf·​fo·​dil ˈdaf-ə-ˌdil How to pronounce daffodil (audio)
: any of various herbs that produce long slender leaves and flowers from an overwintering bulb in the spring
especially : one with petals whose inner parts are arranged to form a trumpet-shaped tube compare jonquil, narcissus

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