gladiolus Definition
any plant of the genus Gladiolus, of the iris family, native especially to Africa, having erect, sword-shaped leaves and spikes of flowers in a variety of colors.
Using gladiolus: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "gladiolus" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The garden was filled with colorful gladiolus.
Example
She received a bouquet of gladiolus as a gift.
Example
Gladiolus is a popular flower for floral arrangements.
gladiolus Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for gladiolus
- sword lily
- corn flag
Phrases with gladiolus
gladiolus corms
a swollen stem base that stores food and from which new plants arise
Example
The gladiolus corms were planted in the spring and bloomed in the summer.
a fungal disease that affects gladiolus plants, causing orange or brown spots on the leaves
Example
The gladiolus rust damaged the plants in the garden, causing them to wilt and die.
an exhibition or competition of gladiolus flowers, often held by horticultural societies
Example
The local horticultural society organized a gladiolus show, where gardeners could display their best blooms.
Origins of gladiolus
from Latin 'gladius', meaning 'sword'
Summary: gladiolus in Brief
The term 'gladiolus' [glad-ee-oh-luh s] refers to any plant of the genus Gladiolus, native to Africa, with sword-shaped leaves and spikes of colorful flowers. It is a popular flower for arrangements and gardens, exemplified by 'The garden was filled with colorful gladiolus.' 'Gladiolus' extends into phrases like 'gladiolus corms,' denoting swollen stem bases that store food, and 'gladiolus show,' referring to exhibitions of the flowers.