petunia

[ pi-oo-nyuh, -nee-uh, -tyoo- ]

noun

1. any garden plant belonging to the genus Petunia, of the nightshade family, native to tropical America, having funnel-shaped flowers of various colors.
2. a deep, reddish purple.

petunia

/ pɪˈtjuːnɪə /

noun

1. any solanaceous plant of the tropical American genus Petunia: cultivated for their white, pink, blue, or purple funnel-shaped flowers

Word History and Origins

Origin of petunia¹

1815–25; < New Latin < obsolete French petun tobacco < Tupi petyn; -ia

Word History and Origins

Origin of petunia¹

C19: via New Latin from obsolete French petun variety of tobacco, from Tupi petyn

Example Sentences

A better known member of the family is the Petunia, very handsome, but little better than an annual.

From Project Gutenberg

There—just opposite—petunia bow in her bonnet—selling kittens.

From Project Gutenberg

His gaze wandered to Barbara, who, with Petunia, was curled up in a big old-fashioned rocker.

From Project Gutenberg

Petunia, perched in lopsided fashion on a heap of mill-sides was, apparently, superintending.

From Project Gutenberg

The major regarded Petunia, who was seated upon the heap of mill- sides, in a most haphazard and dissipated attitude.

From Project Gutenberg