Definition

A type of plant or a color that is a pale purplish blue. It can also refer to certain small marine snails with spiral shells.

Example

The garden was filled with beautiful periwinkle flowers that bloomed in the spring.

Conversation

Have you seen that new paint color called periwinkle?

Yeah, it’s such a lovely shade of blue!

I want to use periwinkle for my room; it seems so calming.

That sounds perfect! It will definitely brighten up the space.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Periwinkle originates from the Old English word 'periwinkle' (meaning a type of small, blue flower or the shell of a marine snail). The word is derived from the Latin 'vinca' (meaning to bind or tie), which refers to the plant's trailing habit. The term has evolved to describe both the flower and the color associated with it.

Memory Tip

Think of the Old English word for a small blue flower, which helps you remember that 'periwinkle' refers to both the flower and the color.

Visually Confused Words