Parma violet

American  

noun

1. a variety of the sweet violet, Viola odorata, that is the source of an essential oil used in perfumery.

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Etymology

Origin of Parma violet

1855–60; after Parma, Italy

Example Sentences

The bride's going away costume was of Parma violet cloth, with waistcoat effect, in brocaded silk.

From Punch, or the London Charivari, Vol. 146, April 8, 1914 by Various

I found an immense bouquet on my seat, of yellow roses with thick clusters of violets round the stalk, the whole thing tied up with wide Parma violet ribbons.

From Margot Asquith, an Autobiography - Two Volumes in One by Asquith, Margot

"Yes, sir," she answered, and promptly led the way up a newly-carpeted staircase, redolent of Parma violet scent and glistening with white enamelled woodwork and plaster casts.

From Adrien Leroy by Garvice, Charles

Or how would it be if she gave up being a Parma violet and went a little way down the path and then turned back when she heard him coming?

From The Incomplete Amorist by Nesbit, E. (Edith)

Buy my flowers, citizens,—   Here's a Parma violet; Ah! why is my white rose red?

From Old Spookses' Pass, Malcolm's Katie, and other poems by Crawford, Isabella Valancy