bougainvillea

noun

bou·​gain·​vil·​lea ˌbü-gən-ˈvil-yə 

ˌbō-, 

ˌbu̇-, 

-ˈvē-ə 

variants or less commonly bougainvillaea

: any of a genus (Bougainvillaea) of the four-o'clock family of ornamental tropical American woody vines and shrubs with brilliant purple or red floral bracts

Examples of bougainvillea in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Give your bougainvillea well-draining soil and a sturdy support to grow on. —Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 17 May 2026

In this room, the bed is inspired by the color of bougainvillea, and the block print on the walls is a green and pink flower. —Eleni N. Gage, Better Homes & Gardens, 13 May 2026

Our bougainvillea is growing back from the base, but the upper stems all appear dead. —Tom MacCubbin, The Orlando Sentinel, 10 May 2026

The best climbing vines, like vibrant pink bougainvillea, purple clematis, and fragrant honeysuckle, add color and scent to sturdy outdoor structures. —Blythe Copeland, Martha Stewart, 27 Apr. 2026

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Louis Antoine de Bougainville

First Known Use

1849, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for bougainvillea

• achillea
• cilia