petunia

noun

pe·​tu·​nia pi-ˈtün-yə 

-ˈtyün-

: any of a genus (Petunia) of tropical South American herbs of the nightshade family that are commonly grown as annuals for their fragrant, colorful, trumpet-shaped flowers

Illustration of petunia

Examples of petunia in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Other traditional bean companions, such as petunias or garlic, may yet be proven effective in future studies. —Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 3 Apr. 2026

Gerdes's top petunia picks are those from the Wave series. —Miranda Crowell, Better Homes & Gardens, 1 Apr. 2026

Each of these petunias offers multiple color options, ranging from vibrant pink to a soft silvery shade. —Mary Grace Granados special Contributor, Dallas Morning News, 18 Mar. 2026

Hummingbirds are drawn to red flowers, so planting petunias, salvia and hibiscus around your home and garden can help attract them. —Jordan Green, Memphis Commercial Appeal, 6 Mar. 2026

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from obsolete French petun tobacco, from Tupi petɨ́ma

First Known Use

1825, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for petunia

• dyspareunia

Kids Definition

petunia

noun

pe·​tu·​nia pi-ˈt(y)ün-yə 

: any of a genus of tropical South American herbs of the nightshade family widely grown for their showy funnel-shaped flowers