peony

noun

pe·​o·​ny ˈpē-ə-nē 

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

Hurd made her entrance from the top of the chateau’s stone staircase before walking down the aisle in a Galia Lahav dress, carrying an all-white bouquet of peonies, hydrangeas, garden roses, ranunculus and stock. — Hannah Sacks, PEOPLE, 20 July 2026

Tree peonies and Itoh peonies have stronger stems and usually do not require staking. — Rita Pelczar, Better Homes & Gardens, 16 July 2026

Also on the watch list for both yards and homes are lily of the valley, lilies, cyclamen, lantana, hosta, peony, geranium, chrysanthemum, begonia, gladiola, jade plant, snake plant, kalanchoe, hyacinth, bird of paradise and poinsettia. — Ryan Brennan, Miami Herald, 14 July 2026

Other plants that are toxic to both species include lily of the valley, cyclamen, lantana, hosta, peony, geranium, chrysanthemum, gladiola, hyacinth, kalanchoe and bird of paradise. — Ryan Brennan, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 14 July 2026

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

Phrases Containing peony

• tree peony

Kids Definition

peony

noun

pe·​o·​ny ˈpē-ə-nē 

plural peonies

: any of a genus of plants that are widely grown for their large red, pink, or white flowers