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

Think beyond the rosebuds and instead opt for dramatic peony tulips. —Audrey Lee, Architectural Digest, 21 Jan. 2026

There’s also peony extract, an anti-inflammatory antioxidant that has anti-aging benefits. —Tamim Alnuweiri, InStyle, 12 Jan. 2026

Spring-Scented Hand Soaps Darden subliminally channels spring during winter months with fragrant hand soaps that smell of peony and gardenia. —Kristin Hohenadel, The Spruce, 12 Jan. 2026

Plants to Prune in Autumn All plants that were affected by pests and diseases, as well as plants that are prone to mildew problems, like peonies, bee balm, and phlox. —Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 11 Jan. 2026

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