begonia

noun

be·​go·​nia bi-ˈgō-nyə How to pronounce begonia (audio)
: any of a large genus (Begonia of the family Begoniaceae, the begonia family) of tropical or subtropical herbs and shrubs that have asymmetrical leaves and are widely cultivated as ornamentals

Examples of begonia in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Temperature and Humidity Because these plants grow in tropical and subtropical environments, begonias thrive in warm, humid regions. Lauren David, Martha Stewart, 29 May 2026 Seasonal color plants like begonia, penta and echinacea (coneflower) also work well. Yolanda Harris, AJC.com, 28 May 2026 In one grouping, big-leaf elephant ears, specimen begonias, and amaryllises (whose deep green foliage looks great even without flowers) mingle with outdoor plants like Hakone grass, coral bells, and ferns. Mike Irvine, Better Homes & Gardens, 18 May 2026 The best flowers for small-space spring gardening include petunias, geraniums, marigolds, impatiens, begonias, lavender and pansies — all of which thrive in containers, hanging baskets and tight beds. Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 13 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for begonia

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Michel Bégon †1710 French governor of Santo Domingo

First Known Use

1751, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of begonia was in 1751

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Cite this Entry

“Begonia.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/begonia. Accessed 3 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

begonia

noun
be·​go·​nia bi-ˈgō-nyə How to pronounce begonia (audio)
: any of a large genus of tropical herbs often grown for their colorful leaves and bright waxy flowers

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