asphodel

From Ancient Greek ἀσφόδελος (asphódelos). Doublet of daffodil.

• IPA^(key): /ˈæsfədɛl/

asphodel (usually uncountable, plural asphodels)

1. Flowering plants of the family Asphodelaceae, especially Asphodelus ramosus and Asphodelus albus; the flowers of these plants.
2. (Greek mythology) The flower said to carpet Hades, and a favorite food of the dead.
   • 1674, John Milton, Paradise Lost, Book 9:

     Her hand he seis'd, and to a shadie bank,

     Thick overhead with verdant roof imbowr'd

     He led her nothing loath; Flours were the Couch,

     Pansies, and Violets, and Asphodel,

     And Hyacinth, Earths freshest softest lap.

• pholades