peony

noun

pe·​o·​ny ˈpē-ə-nē 

plural peonies

1

: any of a genus (Paeonia of the family Paeoniaceae) of chiefly Eurasian plants with large often double flowers

2

: the flower of a peony

Examples of peony in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

For example, ants swarm all over peony buds collecting the nectar. —Arricca Elin Sansone, Southern Living, 7 Sep. 2025

Use these step-by-step instructions to divide garden peonies correctly so each part will grow into a strong new plant to add to your landscape or to share with other gardeners. —Megan Hughes, Better Homes & Gardens, 3 Sep. 2025

In fact, pink appears to be the color of the season—from peach to peony, dresses are coming up rosy. —Rosie Jarman, Vogue, 28 Aug. 2025

The Kansas City florist also pointed out that while most of the blooms featured are available year-round, the peonies were a rare seasonal touch. —Bryan West, USA Today, 27 Aug. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English piony, from Anglo-French peonie, pioiné, from Latin paeonia, from Greek paiōnia, from Paiōn Paeon, physician of the gods

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing peony

• tree peony

Kids Definition

peony

noun

pe·​o·​ny ˈpē-ə-nē 

plural peonies

: any of a genus of plants that are widely grown for their large red, pink, or white flowers