1
: any of a genus (Trifolium) of low leguminous herbs having trifoliolate leaves and flowers in dense heads and including many that are valuable for forage and attractive to bees
2
: any of various related plants (as of the genera Melilotus, Lespedeza, or Medicago) of the legume family
see also:

Examples of clover 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.
Drawing from the Renaissance game’s design and motif, there are playful talismans — geese, dragonflies, clovers, horseshoes, dice, keys and ladybugs — across trays, teapots, mugs, boxes, miniatures and espresso sets. — Sofia Celeste, Footwear News, 7 Oct. 2026 The four-leaf-clover pattern appears around 200, 150 and 100 million years ago, and again between 30 and 20 million years ago. — Jacek Krywko, Scientific American, 1 Oct. 2026 But rest assured, customers, the signature potbelly stove and historic local photos have made the move — along with the fan-favorite sandwiches with Secret Goo, clover sprouts and dill pickle on the side; the salads; and the family-recipe soups. — Linda Zavoral, Mercury News, 1 Sep. 2026 This can include interplanting grass with clover for more competitive plant coverage, dethatching and aerating lawns to boost grass health, and addressing turf diseases to naturally reduce patchy areas. — Lauren Landers, The Spruce, 30 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for clover

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Old English clāfre; akin to Old High German klēo clover

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of clover was before the 12th century

Cite this Entry

“Clover.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/clover. Accessed 9 Oct. 2026.

Kids Definition

: any of a genus of herbs of the legume family that have leaves with three leaflets and flowers in dense heads and that include many plants valuable for forage and as a source of nectar for bees
also : any of various related plants

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