begonia

noun

be·​go·​nia bi-ˈgō-nyə 

: 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

If there is any green in the stems there is hope the begonia can continue growth from those shoots. —Tom MacCubbin, The Orlando Sentinel, 21 Mar. 2026

But other begonia varieties have foliage that can hold its own in the garden when the plants aren't flowering, too, like the Polka Dot begonia (Begonia maculata) and the orange-leafed 'Autumn Crinkle' begonia, a rhizomatous hybrid. —Derek Carwood, Better Homes & Gardens, 12 Mar. 2026

His father grew flowers and tomatoes in the greenhouse, and begonias were his specialty. —Mary Grace Granados, Dallas Morning News, 3 Mar. 2026

Some begonias are annuals, others perennials so always read the care tags but all prefer full to partial shade. —Mary Marlowe Leverette, Southern Living, 17 Feb. 2026

Word History

Etymology

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

First Known Use

1751, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for begonia

• ammonia
• pneumonia
• bronchopneumonia
• pleuropneumonia

Kids Definition

begonia

noun

be·​go·​nia bi-ˈgō-nyə 

: any of a large genus of tropical herbs often grown for their colorful leaves and bright waxy flowers