bougainvillea

noun

bou·​gain·​vil·​lea ˌbü-gən-ˈvil-yə 

ˌbō-, 

ˌbu̇-, 

-ˈvē-ə 

variants or less commonly bougainvillaea

: any of a genus (Bougainvillaea) of the four-o'clock family of ornamental tropical American woody vines and shrubs with brilliant purple or red floral bracts

Examples of bougainvillea in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

On a recent morning, dozens of girls in crisp uniforms rushed through the courtyards filled with bougainvillea, baobabs and palm trees to the sounds of birds and ocean waves. — ABC News, 18 Aug. 2026

At this palm- and bougainvillea-lined oasis, there was a distinct atmosphere of calm. — Jacqui Gifford, Travel + Leisure, 17 Aug. 2026

Shocking-pink bougainvillea and electric-blue morning glory twine up columns, providing a brilliant shot of color, while Javanese four-poster beds and rattan sun loungers are piled high with downy mattresses and cushions in Marni prints. — Hamish Bowles, Vogue, 16 Aug. 2026

Designed to resemble bougainvillea flowers, the basket is made up of 12 branches constructed with a blend of plastic and silk that won’t fade or become damaged when exposed to the elements. — Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 6 Aug. 2026

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Louis Antoine de Bougainville

First Known Use

1849, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for bougainvillea

• achillea
• cilia