sunflower

noun

sun·​flow·​er ˈsən-ˌflau̇(-ə)r 

: any of a genus (Helianthus, especially H. annuus) of New World composite plants with large yellow-rayed flower heads bearing edible seeds that yield an edible oil

Examples of sunflower in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Think sesame, pepitas, sunflower, hemp, and flax—the more variety the better. —Jesse Szewczyk, Bon Appetit Magazine, 22 Feb. 2026

Their big flower heads make sunflowers especially alluring to bees and other pollinators. —Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 20 Feb. 2026

Heavy sunflowers weeping over fences; iris curling and browning at the edges far away from their purple hearts; ears of corn letting their auburn hair wind down to their stalks. —Literary Hub, 17 Feb. 2026

Beans and peas fix nitrogen in the soil, corn and sunflowers provide shade and a natural trellis, and radishes serve as a trap for pests. —Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 16 Feb. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1597, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for sunflower

• airpower
• brainpower
• devour
• empower
• firepower
• horsepower
• manpower
• mayflower
• safflower
• wallflower
• watchtower
• wildflower

Kids Definition

sunflower

noun

sun·​flow·​er -ˌflau̇(-ə)r 

: any of a genus of tall herbs that are often grown for their large showy flower heads with yellow ray flowers and for their oil-rich seeds