king devil

noun

1. any of several European hawkweeds introduced into northeastern North America, where they are troublesome weeds.

Word History and Origins

Origin of king devil¹

First recorded in 1890–95

Example Sentences

A king-devil, come fresh out of hell, could scarcely have looked more terrible.

From Project Gutenberg

He wondered if perhaps King Devil had not bounced him up more than people realized.

From Project Gutenberg

Each has a king-devil or arch-demon with a posse of subalterns or evil spirits.

From Project Gutenberg

He is the king-devil, and much the Commandant wants to cage him.

From Project Gutenberg