Canterbury bells

American  

noun

(used with a singular or plural verb)

1. a plant, Campanula medium, cultivated for its showy, bell-shaped violet-blue, pink, or white flowers in loose clusters.

---

Etymology

Origin of Canterbury bells

First recorded in 1570–80

Example Sentences

Wildflower Hill at the Theodore Payne Foundation Nursery is thriving with a few species of phacelia, including lavender-blue lacy phacelia and violet Canterbury bells.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 17, 2026

A premiere destination for wildflower viewing, Chino Hills State Park is host to wild hyacinth, poppies, Canterbury bells and redmaids through May.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 17, 2026

If you want to get up close and personal with blankets of goldfields, Canterbury bells, filaree and other native plants, your best bet is to take a hike.

From Los Angeles Times • May 10, 2023

The two were at the window staring spellbound, as she swept back to the carriage between the sweet-williams and Canterbury bells bordering the narrow garden path.

From The Shuttle by Burnett, Frances Hodgson

"They are to be Canterbury bells really," explained Josephine to Miss Ashwell as the lemonade was being served and the rest of the tags were being passed about so that they might all be read.

From Judy of York Hill by Bennett, Ethel Hume