croton

noun

cro·​ton ˈkrō-tᵊn 

1

: any of a genus (Croton) of herbs, shrubs, and trees of the spurge family: such as

a

: one (C. eluteria) of the Bahamas yielding cascarilla bark

b

: an Asian plant (C. tiglium) yielding croton oil

2

: any of a genus (Codiaeum) of shrubs and trees related to the crotons

Examples of croton in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Steinkopf recommends enjoying crotons outdoors in summer containers—or planting them permanently in warm climates—rather than struggling to keep them happy inside. —Rachel Gillett, Martha Stewart, 14 Jan. 2026

In chilly nights, cover your crotons with a frost blanket. —Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 14 Oct. 2025

An airy lanai, an essential feature of Hawaiian residences for gathering with friends and family, trails alongside the pool and hot tub, which are flanked by an abundance of palm trees, croton plants, and other tropical foliage. —Demetrius Simms, Robb Report, 1 Aug. 2025

The recent cold appears to have damaged my crotons. —Tom MacCubbin, Orlando Sentinel, 15 Feb. 2025

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, genus name, from Greek krotōn castor-oil plant

First Known Use

1751, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing croton

• croton oil

Rhymes for croton

• oaten
• multiphoton

Medical Definition

croton

noun

cro·​ton ˈkrōt-ᵊn 

1

capitalized : a genus of herbs and shrubs of the spurge family

2

: an herb or shrub of the genus Croton: as

a

: one (C. eluteria) of the Bahamas yielding cascarilla bark

b

: an Asian plant (C. tiglium) yielding croton oil

Geographical Definition

Croton

geographical name

Cro·​ton ˈkrō-tᵊn 

1

river 60 miles (95 kilometers) long in southeastern New York flowing into the Hudson River

2

see crotone