Johnny-jump-up

[ jon-ee-juhmp-uhp ]

noun

1. any of certain violets, especially Viola pedunculata, having variously colored flowers.
2. a small form of the pansy, V. tricolor.

Johnny-jump-up

noun

1. any of several violaceous plants, esp the wild pansy

Word History and Origins

Origin of Johnny-jump-up¹

1835–45, Americanism; so called from its rapid rate of growth; Johnny

Word History and Origins

Origin of Johnny-jump-up¹

C19: so called from its quick growth

Example Sentences

In a very short time a butterfly was brought out, and harnessed to a first-class Johnny-jump-up.

From Project Gutenberg

But Johnny-jump-up suits 'em best, for it kind o' tells how they come up in the spring.

From Project Gutenberg

Neither like an old family physician nor a new johnny-jump-up; just quiet and cool and pleasant.

From Project Gutenberg