gardenia

noun

gar·​de·​nia gär-ˈdē-nyə 

: any of a large genus (Gardenia) of Old World tropical trees and shrubs of the madder family with showy fragrant white or yellow flowers

Examples of gardenia in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

According to the brand this is a modern take on the classic chypre with gardenia at the heart, plus wild strawberry, brown sugar, patchouli, and vanilla. —Kimberly Wilson, Essence, 1 Dec. 2025

Just a spritz of the iconic New York hotel’s light gardenia fragrance makes a room smell infinitely fresher. —Miranda Crowell, Better Homes & Gardens, 26 Nov. 2025

The formula is infused with a botanical blend of white water lily, gardenia, and lotus to help nourish and soothe skin with every application. —Denise Primbet, Glamour, 3 Nov. 2025

This balm features a Monoï Hydrating Complex (a blend of coconut oil and gardenia extract) that provides lips with lasting softness, while squalane, jojoba seed oil, and pomegranate flower extract boost moisture and nourishment. —Lily Wohlner, Allure, 29 Oct. 2025

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Alexander Garden †1791 Scottish naturalist

First Known Use

1756, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

gardenia

noun

gar·​de·​nia gär-ˈdē-nyə 

: any of various Old World tropical trees and shrubs with leathery leaves and fragrant white or yellow flowers

also : one of the flowers