dahlia

noun

dahl·​ia ˈdal-yə  ˈdäl- 

US also and British usually ˈdāl-

: any of a genus (Dahlia) of American tuberous-rooted composite herbs having opposite pinnate leaves and rayed flower heads and including many that are cultivated as ornamentals

Examples of dahlia in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Tall varieties of dahlias require sturdy stakes, or metal, bamboo, or tomato cages. — Rita Pelczar, Better Homes & Gardens, 16 July 2026

Flowers like dahlias, roses, and hydrangeas are also vulnerable to grub infestations. — Sj McShane, Martha Stewart, 11 July 2026

Dahlias There are dozens of gorgeous dahlia varieties that bring dimension and color to a flower bed. — Melissa Epifano, The Spruce, 8 July 2026

Continue to deadhead dahlias throughout their blooming season, as often as once a week, to maximize their flower production. — Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 30 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, genus name, from Anders Dahl †1789 Swedish botanist

First Known Use

1835, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

dahlia

noun

dahl·​ia ˈdal-yə  ˈdäl- 

: any of a genus of American herbs related to the daisies and having brightly colored flower heads and a root that is a tuber