Pronunciation: [wˈɔːtə lˈɪli] (IPA) 
The correct spelling of the aquatic flower commonly known as a water lily is /ˈwɔː.tər ˌlɪl.i/. The first syllable is spelled with the letter "a" but pronounced with a short "o" sound, while the second syllable is pronounced with a long "i" sound despite its spelling with the letter "y." Overall, the IPA phonetic transcription accurately reflects the pronunciation of this beautiful and popular flower.
A water lily is a type of flowering plant that belongs to the family Nymphaeaceae. It is characterized by its distinct large, showy flowers that float on the surface of still or slow-moving freshwater bodies, such as ponds, lakes, and marshes.
Water lilies are well-known for their exquisite beauty and have long been admired for their elegance. They typically have round or oval-shaped leaves with a waxy coating that allows them to repel water, keeping them dry and allowing them to float effortlessly. The leaves are often green, but can also be variegated or even reddish in color. The flowers of a water lily are generally large, fragrant, and have numerous petals arranged in a symmetrical manner, giving them a captivating appearance. They come in a variety of colors, including white, pink, yellow, and lavender, with some species showcasing multiple hues.
These aquatic plants play a crucial role in their ecosystems, providing shade and habitat for a wide array of organisms. Their floating leaves also help to control the growth of algae and keep the water clear. Furthermore, water lilies are popular ornamental plants in water gardens and have been cultivated and admired by humans for centuries. They symbolize purity, enlightenment, and rebirth in many cultures.
An aquatic plant of several species, producing beautiful flowers.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "water lily" has a relatively straightforward etymology.
The term "water" comes from the Old English word "wæter", which in turn is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "watar". This word has common roots in many Germanic languages, such as the Old High German "wazzar" and the Old Norse "vatn", all meaning "water".
The word "lily", on the other hand, originates from the Latin word "lilium", which is believed to have been borrowed from the Greek word "leírion". The Greek term "leírion" referred to various flowering plants with showy blossoms and likely had earlier Semitic origins.
When these two words are combined, "water" and "lily", they describe a type of aquatic plant with beautiful flowers that is commonly found in freshwater habitats, such as ponds and lakes.
