edelweiss

noun

edel·​weiss ˈā-dᵊl-ˌvīs How to pronounce edelweiss (audio)
-ˌwīs
: a small alpine perennial composite herb (Leontopodium nivale synonym L. alpinum) of central and southeast Europe that has a dense woolly white pubescence

Illustration of edelweiss

Illustration of edelweiss

Examples of edelweiss in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The addition of edelweiss extract boosts both moisture and shine, according to Mota. — Iman Balagam, Vogue, 29 Oct. 2025 In keeping with the wellness-first atmosphere, the bathrooms are true sanctuaries carved from limestone and slate, with custom products infused with local lemon, lady’s mantle, and edelweiss. — Jackie Caradonio, Travel + Leisure, 19 Jan. 2026 The spray also features Oribe’s Signature Complex, a brand hallmark that includes watermelon, lychee, and edelweiss flower to defend hair from drying and damaging oxidative stress. — Michelle Rostamian, Allure, 27 Feb. 2026

Word History

Etymology

German, from edel noble + weiss white

First Known Use

1862, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of edelweiss was in 1862

Rhymes for edelweiss

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Browse Nearby Words

Edeleanu process
edelweiss
edema
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Cite this Entry

“Edelweiss.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/edelweiss. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

edelweiss

noun
edel·​weiss ˈād-ᵊl-ˌwīs How to pronounce edelweiss (audio)
: a small woolly herb that is related to the thistles and grows high in the Alps

More from Merriam-Webster on edelweiss

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about edelweiss

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