begonia

noun

be·​go·​nia bi-ˈgō-nyə 

: any of a large genus (Begonia of the family Begoniaceae, the begonia family) of tropical or subtropical herbs and shrubs that have asymmetrical leaves and are widely cultivated as ornamentals

Examples of begonia in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Caladiums also pair well with impatiens, begonias, and fuchsias. —Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 4 May 2026

Wax Begonia Wax begonias (Begonia semperflorens) are popular as mass plantings in beds and borders. —Barbara Gillette, The Spruce, 27 Apr. 2026

These troughs hold varieties that can handle partial shade: pink and white wax begonias, 'Wasabi' coleus, Pentas 'Butterfly Deep Rose', and 'Pink Crystals' ruby grass. —Midwest Living, 22 Apr. 2026

The rules also allow small plants — from begonias to succulents — up to 18 inches tall as long as they are spaced out in groups. —Los Angeles Times, 18 Apr. 2026

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Michel Bégon †1710 French governor of Santo Domingo

First Known Use

1751, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for begonia

• ammonia
• pneumonia
• bronchopneumonia
• pleuropneumonia

Kids Definition

begonia

noun

be·​go·​nia bi-ˈgō-nyə 

: any of a large genus of tropical herbs often grown for their colorful leaves and bright waxy flowers