cowslip

Definition

A low-growing plant, Primula veris, with yellow flowers.

Etymology

From Middle English cowslyppe, from Old English cūslyppe (“cowslip”), from cū (“cow”) + slyppe (“paste, viscid substance”), related to Old English slūpan (“to slip, glide, move softly”). Compare oxlip.

Example Sentences

• "Where the bee sucks, there suck I: / In a cowslip's bell I lie;"
• "Here is spring were celandine, marsh marigold, wind-flower, primrose, cowslip and dog's violet."