ˈking-cup
A name given in many parts of England to the common species of buttercup, Ranunculus acris, bulbosus, and repens; also to Marsh Marigold, Caltha palustris.
| 1538 Turner Libellus, Ranvncvlvs,..Kyngecuppe. 1551 ― Herbal i. I v b, A yelow floure like vnto the kyngcuppe called Ranunculus. 1634 Peacham Gentl. Exerc. ii. vii. 124 A garland of Bents, King-cups, and Maidens haire. 1784 Cowper Task vi. 303 To gather king-cups in the yellow mead. 1802 Wordsw. Small Celandine 1 Pansies, lilies, kingcups, daisies, Let them live upon their praises! 1833 Tennyson Poems 38 Methinks that I could tell you all The cowslips and the kingcups there. |