fritillary Definition

fritillary
noun fritallaries

1. bot.
A perennial plant, widespread in central Europe, with narrow greyish-green leaves and a drooping head bearing a single bell-shaped flower, chequered pink and dull purple.
2. zool.
Any of many species of a colourful butterfly having yellowish-brown wings with black markings, and only four fully-developed legs, the front pair of legs being short and brush-like, especially in the male.

Etymology: 17c: from Latin fritillus dice-box.