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

Things to Look Out For Pruning peonies is a relatively straightforward process, but there are some common mistakes and need-to-knows that will make or break your experience. — Samantha Johnson, Martha Stewart, 30 June 2026

Maintain even moisture Tree and woodland peonies do better in dappled light, but herbaceous peonies require 6 to 8 hours of full sunlight daily for best flowering and upright growth. — Barbara Gillette, The Spruce, 29 June 2026

Goldstein likes drawing her favorite flowers, peonies, tulips, or poppies for her designs and opts for classic colors such as pink, lavender, yellow, and pops of green. — Audrey Noble, Vogue, 25 June 2026

However, the centifolia rose note mixed with the sweet smell of freesia and crisp peony finish create an intoxicatingly warm profile that’s delectable. — Tessa Petak, InStyle, 24 June 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