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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In fact, begonias are a popular choice for hanging baskets and window boxes due to their lush foliage and versatility. 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 Walk through the grounds and find bromeliads, begonias, hibiscus, and more. Kristin Braswell, Travel + Leisure, 13 Feb. 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 19 Mar. 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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