chrysanthemum

noun

chry·​san·​the·​mum kri-ˈsan(t)-thə-məm 

also -ˈzan(t)-

1

: any of various composite plants (genus Chrysanthemum) including weeds, ornamentals grown for their brightly colored often double flower heads, and others important as sources of medicinals and insecticides

2

: a flower head of an ornamental chrysanthemum

Illustration of chrysanthemum

• chrysanthemum 2

Examples of chrysanthemum in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

This oversized outdoor wreath features chrysanthemums and hydrangeas crafted from fade-resistant fabric designed to stay fresh and vibrant without the upkeep. —Mariana Best, Better Homes & Gardens, 8 Mar. 2026

Adding chamomile or chrysanthemum with licorice root can clear your internal heat and balance your energy. —Audrey Noble, Vogue, 7 Feb. 2026

Steinkopf says that plants like chrysanthemums, miniature roses, hydrangeas, and azaleas need an outdoor dormant season to survive in the long term. —Rachel Gillett, Martha Stewart, 14 Jan. 2026

Then, come back and keep scrolling for more decorative Legos, including a realistic orchid build with a near-perfect overall rating and this chrysanthemum building set that has been purchased more than 50,000 times by shoppers in the past month. —Mia Huelsbeck, PEOPLE, 29 Dec. 2025

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from New Latin, genus name, going back to Latin chrȳsanthemon, chrȳsanthemum "a yellow-flowered composite plant," borrowed from Greek chrȳsánthemon "any of various plants with bright yellow flowers," from chrȳsós "gold" + ánthemon "blossom, flower" — more at chryso-, anthemion

First Known Use

1548, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

chrysanthemum

noun

chry·​san·​the·​mum kris-ˈan(t)-thə-məm 

1

: any of a genus of plants that are related to the daisies and include weeds, ornamental plants grown for their brightly colored often double flower heads, and others important as sources of substances used in medicine and as insecticides

2

: a flower head of an ornamental chrysanthemum