camellia

noun

ca·​mel·​lia kə-ˈmēl-yə 

: any of a genus (Camellia) of shrubs or trees of the tea family

especially : an ornamental greenhouse shrub (C. japonica) with glossy leaves and roselike flowers

Examples of camellia in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Blurring bamboo silk powders keep shine in check without dulling skin, while camellia seed oil and antioxidant-rich vitamin E help mature complexions look smooth, hydrated, and naturally luminous. — Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 23 June 2026

Key Ingredients: Japanese peach extract, squalane, Japanese camellia oil | Size: 0.32 oz For only $8, this super-glossy, thirst-quenching lip mask packs an impressive punch. — Emma Greene, InStyle, 28 May 2026

In general, camellias grow and bloom better in partial shade, with shelter from hot afternoon sun. — Steve Bender, Southern Living, 27 May 2026

Algal leaf spot normally causes minimal harm and is found on older leaves that, within a year or two, drop from the camellias. — Tom MacCubbin, The Orlando Sentinel, 23 May 2026

Word History

Etymology

New Latin Camellia, from Camellus (Georg Josef Kamel †1706 Moravian Jesuit missionary)

First Known Use

1751, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for camellia

• melia
• telia
• adelia
• borrelia
• lobelia
• syringomyelia

Kids Definition

camellia

noun

ca·​mel·​lia kə-ˈmēl-yə 

: a greenhouse shrub that is related to the tea plant and has glossy evergreen leaves and showy roselike flowers