From The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:
Posy \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.
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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.
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We make a difference between suffering thistles to
grow among us, and wearing them for posies. --Swift.
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