begonia

[ bih-gohn-yuh, -goh-nee-uh ]

noun

1. any tropical plant belonging to the genus Begonia, including species cultivated for the handsome, succulent leaves and waxy flowers.

begonia

/ bɪˈɡəʊnjə /

noun

1. any plant of the genus Begonia , of warm and tropical regions, widely cultivated for their ornamental leaves and waxy flowers: family Begoniaceae

Word History and Origins

Origin of begonia¹

< New Latin (Linnaeus), named after Michel Bégon (1638–1710), French patron of science; -ia

Word History and Origins

Origin of begonia¹

C18: New Latin, named after Michel Bégon (1638–1710), French patron of science

Example Sentences

I buried my nose in my waxy begonias in a sudden fit of shyness.

From Literature

If you’re ready for a break from the usual begonias and impatiens, try a few of these flamboyant annuals and tender perennials: ● Petunia integrifolia: A cascading petunia with little violet flowers.

From Seattle Times

Department of Agriculture figures show that wholesale revenue for the flowers last year topped $50.6 million, putting them just behind begonias and pansies.

From Los Angeles Times

Surely I could find some monsteras, begonias and birds of paradise in sunny California.

From Los Angeles Times

But did you know that the juicy stems and colorful blossoms of tuberous begonias have a lemonlike flavor?

From Seattle Times