Meaning of a White Rose

Overview

Since the Victorian age, flowers have communicated meaning from the giver to the receiver. Knowing these traditions and beliefs can help you convey precisely what you'd like to say. White roses are as laden with symbolism as the more commonly given red variety.

White Rose Meaning

White roses are associated with purity and innocence. When you give white roses to someone, it means she is heavenly to you. A gift of white roses says the intention is pure. It shows an everlasting love, one that will endure through the ages.

Myths

The Greek goddess of love, Aphrodite, is said to have been born with sea foam that fell to the Earth and became white roses. This legend has it that this goddess also gave the rose its name.

White Wilted Roses

If the gift is of withered or already dead white roses, it conveys the belief that the giver has "no impression" of the recipient. Alternatively, it also says that the relationship is ending.

Rose Buds

White rose buds show young love and innocence. A bouquet or collection of nothing but white rose buds symbolizes a different shade of meaning than roses in bloom.

Traditions

In the 1800s, a bouquet of white roses and flowers told the groom that the bride was pure and innocent. It meant the bride "was worthy" of the groom. The white rose in this instance shows virginity and purity.

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