impatiens
[im-pey-shuh nz]
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noun, plural im·pa·tiens.
any of numerous plants belonging to the genus Impatiens, of the balsam family, having irregular flowers in which the calyx and corolla are not clearly distinguishable and bearing fruit that bursts open to scatter the seeds.
Origin of impatiens
1880–85; < New Latin, Latin impatiēns not enduring, not tolerating (see impatient); alluding to the plant's quick release of seeds upon slight contact; compare the familiar name touch-me-not
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Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019
Examples from the Web for impatiens
Historical Examples of impatiens
The two genera best known in British gardens are Balsamina and Impatiens.
Botany for LadiesJane Loudon
Impatiens Sultani is a generally known conservatory plant, making a charming pot subject for warm greenhouse or a room.
The Practical Garden-BookC. E. Hunn
Impatiens balsamīna, native of the East Indies, is a common cultivated species.
A separate order, called Hydrocere, has been made of one of the species of Impatiens (I. natans).
Botany for LadiesJane Loudon
I have only recorded a single instance, and in this a honey bee was seen to perforate the fragile spurs of Impatiens.
impatiens
noun plural -ens
Word Origin for impatiens
C18: New Latin from Latin: impatient; from the fact that the ripe pods burst open when touched
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
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