poinsettia

noun

poin·​set·​tia pȯin-ˈse-tē-ə 

nonstandard pȯint-

nonstandard

-ˈse-tə 

: any of several spurges (genus Euphorbia) with flower clusters subtended by showy involucral bracts

especially : a showy Mexican and Central American plant (E. pulcherrima) with tapering usually scarlet bracts that suggest petals and surround small yellow flowers

Illustration of poinsettia

Examples of poinsettia in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

This was the most popular festive plant in the early 20th century before being replaced by the poinsettia. —Clarence Schmidt, San Diego Union-Tribune, 11 Feb. 2026

Some plants, such as lilies and poinsettias, can be toxic to dogs and cats. —Lois K. Solomon, Sun Sentinel, 31 Jan. 2026

Unlike poinsettias that tend to disappear with the holiday hoopla, a Christmas cactus (Schlumbergera x buckleyi) adds a nice touch to your decor all year long. —Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 22 Jan. 2026

Now the son delivers the poinsettia. —Paige Williams, New Yorker, 12 Jan. 2026

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Joel R. Poinsett †1851 American diplomat

First Known Use

1836, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

poinsettia

noun

poin·​set·​tia pȯin-ˈset-ē-ə  -ˈset-ə 

: a showy Mexican and Central American plant with large scarlet bracts that grow like petals about its small yellow flowers