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

Beverage-wise, Akashiro offers a selection of Peruvian sodas like Inca Kola and Maracuya, various Peruvian teas like hierba luisa and chrysanthemum and standard beverages like hot and cold green tea. —Brock Keeling, Oc Register, 22 Sep. 2025

Marigolds, daffodils, and chrysanthemums are among the most effective. —Mary Cornetta, Better Homes & Gardens, 22 Sep. 2025

Think chrysanthemums of crimson red, deep purple and pale pink, framed by dark foliage and complemented by pops of cream and light rose from dahlias and other classic fall flowers. —Molly Guthrey, Twin Cities, 18 Sep. 2025

Most of us buy chrysanthemums to enjoy for one colorful season in the fall. —Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 6 Sep. 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