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

Artists used everything from traditional fishbowl terrariums to more sophisticated Wardian cases, which were used to support a myriad of tropical plants, including begonias, gesneriads, and specialty carnivorous plants, says bunting. —Madeline Buiano, Martha Stewart, 9 Mar. 2026

Lobelia with its beautiful blue, Scaevola, tuberous begonias and many other gorgeous flowering plants appear this time of year. —Becky Wern, Florida Times-Union, 7 Mar. 2026

Pick one showy trailer, like this orange ‘Bossa Nova’ begonia, and then build up around it. —Johanna Silver, Better Homes & Gardens, 4 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

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