Po″sy (?), n.; pl.Posies (#). [Contr. fr. poesy.] 1. A brief poetical sentiment; hence, any brief sentiment, motto, or legend; especially, one inscribed on a ring. “The posy of a ring.” Shak.
2. [Probably so called from the use of flowers as having an enigmatical significance. Wedgwood.] A flower; a bouquet; a nosegay. “Bridegroom's posies.” Spenser.
We make a difference between suffering thistles to grow among us, and wearing them for posies. Swift.