passionflower

noun

pas·​sion·​flow·​er ˈpa-shən-ˌflau̇(-ə)r How to pronounce passionflower (audio)
: any of a genus (Passiflora of the family Passifloraceae, the passionflower family) of chiefly tropical woody tendriled climbing vines or erect herbs with usually showy flowers and pulpy often edible berries

Illustration of passionflower

Illustration of passionflower

Examples of passionflower in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Disease and drought-resistant passionflower is surprisingly easy to keep despite its tropical look, and it can even be grown as a houseplant. Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 23 Oct. 2024 Also endowed with anti-spastic properties, passionflower may soothe gastrointestinal disorders, aid digestion, and relieve menstrual pain. Valentina Bottoni, Vogue, 23 Oct. 2024 Apply a few dollops of this lightweight gel—which is more of a styling product than in-shower gloss, FYI—to damp hair before diffusing or air-drying and let the deeply hydrating blend of passionflower extract, cupuacu, Brazilian jicama and nut, and aloe vera do its thing. Deanna Pai, Allure, 8 Aug. 2024 Passionflower Research suggests that passionflower may reduce stress and anxiety and help with insomnia. Lauren O'Connor, Ms, Health, 23 July 2024 See all Example Sentences for passionflower 

Word History

Etymology

from the fancied resemblance of parts of the flower to the instruments of Christ's crucifixion

First Known Use

1633, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of passionflower was in 1633

Dictionary Entries Near passionflower

Cite this Entry

“Passionflower.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/passionflower. Accessed 14 Nov. 2024.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!