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pimpernel

Pronunciation: /ˈpɪmpənɛl/

Definition of pimpernel

noun

a small European plant of the primrose family, with creeping stems and flat five-petalled flowers.
- Genera Anagallis and Lysimachia, family Primulaceae: several species, in particular the scarlet pimpernel

Origin:

late Middle English (denoting the great burnet and the salad burnet): from Old French pimpernelle, based on Latin piper 'pepper' (because of the resemblance of the burnet's fruit to a peppercorn)