primavera

pri·ma·ve·ra ¹ or pri·ma ve·ra  (prm-vr)

n.

1. A tree (Cybistax donnellsmithii) of Mexico and Guatemala, having opposite, palmately compound leaves, yellow flowers, and close-grained, light-colored wood.

2. The wood of this tree, used in cabinetry. Also called white mahogany.

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[Spanish, spring, primavera, from Late Latin prma vra, early spring, pl. of prmum vr : Latin prmus, first; see per¹ in Indo-European roots + Latin vr, spring; see wes in Indo-European roots.]

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pri·ma·ve·ra ²  (prm-vr)

adj.

Garnished or served with assorted fresh vegetables: pasta primavera; shrimp in a primavera sauce.

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[From Italian (alla) primavera, (in the) spring (style), from Late Latin prma vra; see primavera¹.]