Definition

Describing a type of flower shape that looks like a butterfly, typically found in plants from the pea family.

Example

The garden was filled with papilionaceous flowers, showcasing their unique butterfly-like petals.

Conversation

Have you seen that papilionaceous flower in the garden?

Yeah, it looks amazing with those bright colors!

I love how the petals are shaped like butterfly wings.

Exactly! It really adds a unique touch to the whole garden.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Papilionaceous → It is formed from "papilio" (meaning butterfly) and the suffix "-aceous" (meaning having the nature of). The word describes something that has the characteristics or nature of a butterfly, often referring to certain types of flowers that resemble the shape of a butterfly.

Memory Tip

Imagine flowers that have the 'nature' ('-aceous') of a 'butterfly' ('papilio') — that's why papilionaceous describes flowers that look like butterflies.

Visually Confused Words