oxalis

[ ok-suh-lis, ok-sal-is ]

noun

1. any plant of the genus Oxalis, comprising the wood sorrels.

oxalis

/ ˈɒksəlɪs; ɒkˈsælɪs /

noun

1. See wood sorrel
   any plant of the genus Oxalis, having clover-like leaves which contain oxalic acid and white, pink, red, or yellow flowers: family Oxalidaceae See also wood sorrel

Word History and Origins

Origin of oxalis¹

1595–1605; < Latin: garden sorrel, sour wine < Greek oxalís, derivative of oxýs sharp

Word History and Origins

Origin of oxalis¹

C18: via Latin from Greek: sorrel, sour wine, from oxus acid, sharp

Example Sentences

The oca (Oxalis tuberosa) is an oval-shaped root; the skin pale red, and the inside white.

From Project Gutenberg

It was oxalis, or sorrel, and sometimes the children nibbled the sour leaves, calling it sour-grass.

From Project Gutenberg

If you can find a dimorphic Oxalis it will be a new point, for all known species are trimorphic or monomorphic.

From Project Gutenberg

I have written to my gardener to send you plants of Oxalis corniculata (and seeds if possible).

From Project Gutenberg

Another tiny flower is very much like mother's treasured pink oxalis; but is only the bloom of wood sorrel.

From Project Gutenberg