What does margarite mean?
Margarite most commonly means a daisy, especially the familiar common daisy, Bellis perennis, a small perennial plant that grows in lawns, meadows, and other grassy places. Its flower heads have a central yellow disc surrounded by white, pink, or sometimes pale yellow rays. The name is now somewhat old-fashioned or literary, although it remains clear and precise. In specialized contexts, margarite can also refer to a mica-group mineral known for its pearly appearance, and it has been used for a variety of pear. These meanings share the word’s older association with a small, bright, pearl-like flower. The term is therefore useful as an elegant synonym for daisy, but speakers of modern English will usually choose the more familiar word unless they are discussing the plant formally.
nounA daisy, especially the common daisy (Bellis perennis), a low-growing perennial plant with white, pink, or pale yellow flower heads. The term can also denote a member of the mica mineral group or a variety of pear.
- A daisy, especially the common daisy (Bellis perennis).
- A mineral belonging to the mica group, characterized by a pearly sheen.
- A variety of pear.
"A margarite grew at the edge of the lawn, its white petals bright against the grass."
"The margarites opened fully once the morning sun reached the garden."
"The museum display included a polished margarite specimen with a soft, pearly lustre."
The plural is used when referring to several flowers of this kind or to multiple plants or specimens.
"White margarites appeared between the paving stones."
The name ultimately points to a pearl: the daisy’s bright flower heads were compared with pearl-like objects.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does margarite come from?
The word entered English from French marguerite, a feminine form of the name Marguerite. The name ultimately derives from Greek margaritēs, meaning “pearl,” and was applied to the daisy because of the resemblance of its flower to a pearl. Related English words such as margarine and margaritic reflect the same Greek and French etymological connection.
How margarite is actually used
In ordinary English, the word is most familiar as a somewhat literary or old-fashioned name for a daisy. The mineral and pear senses are specialized and much less frequent in general usage.
Easily confused with margarite
A margarite is a flower or mineral, whereas margarine is a butter substitute made from vegetable oils.
A margarite is a daisy, while a margarita is a cocktail made with tequila.