snowdrop

American  

[snoh-drop] / ˈsnoʊˌdrɒp /

noun

1. any of several early-blooming bulbous plants belonging to the genus Galanthus, of the amaryllis family, native to Eurasia, especially G. nivalis, having drooping white flowers with green markings.

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snowdrop British  

/ ˈsnəʊˌdrɒp /

noun

1. any of several amaryllidaceous plants of the Eurasian genus Galanthus, esp G. nivalis, having drooping white bell-shaped flowers that bloom in early spring

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Usage

What does snowdrop mean? A snowdrop is a small, fragrant, white, bell-shaped flower with green markings. The name snowdrop is also used for any plant in the genus Galanthus. The different members of the genus Galanthus vary in size. The scientific name of the common snowdrop flower is Galanthus nivalis. Snowdrops are known for blooming in early spring. They are popularly cultivated for use in bouquets. The snowdrop is one of the January birth flowers (a flower that’s associated with a particular month in the same way as a birthstone). Example: Look at all the snowdrops blooming in the meadow.

Etymology

Origin of snowdrop

First recorded in 1655–65; snow + drop

Example Sentences

Certain species such as cow parsley, yarrow and knapweed are in fact spreading, and he welcomes an influx of non-native plants and "garden escapes", such as snowdrop and buddleia.

From BBC • Oct. 30, 2025

Claire Michelle, a snowdrop donor, said: “A snowdrop donor is someone who donates milk after the death of their baby,” she said.

From BBC • May 27, 2024

We sow a first flat of seeds; we gently rake debris from a bed to make way for a winter aconite or snowdrop to poke through and cheer us.

From Seattle Times • Apr. 1, 2022

A voice comes to a snowdrop and says, you have to leave, a storm is coming.

From New York Times • Sep. 7, 2021

"But Mother, Dunstan kissed me," said Daisy Hempstock, and she fixed the crystal snowdrop at the front of her bonnet, where it chimed and glistened.

From "Stardust" by Neil Gaiman