peony

noun

pe·​o·​ny ˈpē-ə-nē How to pronounce peony (audio)
plural peonies
1
: any of a genus (Paeonia of the family Paeoniaceae) of chiefly Eurasian plants with large often double flowers
2
: the flower of a peony

Examples of peony in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In this perfume, white florals like peony and ylang ylang are balanced with two forms of sweet, warm vanilla and a juicy hit of Mandarin orange. Jennifer Hussein, Allure, 14 Dec. 2025 Several Ohio flower festivals, including tulips and peonies, can make for a great day or weekend trip. Chris McKeown, Cincinnati Enquirer, 6 Dec. 2025 Go the seasonal route with a woody fir-like scent or opt for a sweet peach and peony aroma. Izzy Baskette, PEOPLE, 1 Dec. 2025 The jacket was also the same peony pink as her boots and ski suit, giving the entire look a monochromatic touch. Tara Larson, Footwear News, 27 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for peony

Word History

Etymology

Middle English piony, from Anglo-French peonie, pioiné, from Latin paeonia, from Greek paiōnia, from Paiōn Paeon, physician of the gods

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of peony was in the 14th century

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Cite this Entry

“Peony.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/peony. Accessed 20 Dec. 2025.

Kids Definition

peony

noun
pe·​o·​ny ˈpē-ə-nē How to pronounce peony (audio)
plural peonies
: any of a genus of plants that are widely grown for their large red, pink, or white flowers

More from Merriam-Webster on peony

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