hibiscus

noun

hi·​bis·​cus hī-ˈbi-skəs 

hə-

plural hibiscuses

: any of a large genus (Hibiscus) of herbs, shrubs, or small trees of the mallow family with large showy flowers and usually dentate leaves

Did you know?

There are about 250 species of shrubs, trees, and herbaceous plants in the genus Hibiscus, which belongs to the mallow family. They are native to warm temperate and tropical regions. Several are cultivated as ornamentals for their showy flowers. The tropical Chinese or Hawaiian hibiscus, which is also called China rose, has large, somewhat bell-shaped reddish blossoms. The East African hibiscus, a drooping shrub, is often grown in hanging baskets indoors.

Examples of hibiscus in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

For example, hibiscus tea contains vitamin C, carotenoids, and anthocyanins, which act as antioxidants in the body, protecting your cells against oxidative damage. — Jillian Kubala, HEALTH, 2 Nov. 2026

Originally worn to a state dinner in Malaysia in 2012, the custom Sarah Burton design featured a flowing ivory silhouette adorned with gold hibiscus embroidery—a nod to Malaysia’s national flower. — Eloise Moran, InStyle, 1 Nov. 2026

The rich, silky formula coats the lips with collagen-boosting peptides, Brazilian acai butter, and African mongongo butter to plump and lock in moisture, while lactic acid and hibiscus flower enzymes buff away dry, flaky texture. — Tasha Nicole Smith, Allure, 30 Oct. 2026

In the replica Times Square, building-sized screens cast windows of light as people grabbed elaborate drinks made with iced tea, coffee or hibiscus. — Nabih Bulos, Los Angeles Times, 28 Oct. 2026

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Latin, marsh mallow

First Known Use

1573, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for hibiscus

• meniscus
• discus
• viscous

Kids Definition

hibiscus

noun

hi·​bis·​cus hī-ˈbis-kəs 

hə-

plural hibiscuses

: any of a large genus of herbs, shrubs, or small trees related to the mallow and having toothed leaves and large showy flowers