mayflower

word

Definition

Mayflower is the name of the ship that brought the first English Pilgrims to America in 1620. It can also refer to a wild flower found in North America and Europe, especially one that blooms in May.

Usage & Nuances

In history, 'the Mayflower' almost always refers to the ship. As a plant name, it's rare outside botany or poetic language. Capitalize as 'Mayflower' when meaning the ship; lowercase 'mayflower' is sometimes used for the flower.

Example Sentences

The Mayflower sailed to America in 1620.

basic

Many Pilgrims traveled on the Mayflower.

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The mayflower blooms in spring.

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Every American child learns about the Mayflower in school.

natural

My grandmother used to pick mayflowers during her nature walks.

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There's a famous hotel called the Mayflower in Washington, D.C.

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