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

The formula is packed with hydrating and moisturizing ingredients like glycerin, camellia oil, and ceramides to pamper dry skin types, leaving the skin velvety soft and clean—never greasy—after rinsing. —Emily Orofino, Vogue, 19 Feb. 2026

Boxwood, holly, ferns, and other greenery are combined with climbing vines such as roses, camellias, and jasmine to add height and subtle color, while flowering shrubs and dependable perennials like lavender and hydrangea add romance. —Michele Laufik, Martha Stewart, 16 Feb. 2026

This is a winter camellia tree whose specific cultivar bears Dooley’s name. —Aj Willingham, AJC.com, 16 Feb. 2026

Well-hydrated plants are better able to ward off cold damage, so water your camellias thoroughly before the storm. —Patricia Shannon, Southern Living, 14 Feb. 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