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

Keep your poinsettia to save money, reduce waste, and add a plant to your collection. —Lauren Landers, The Spruce, 7 Jan. 2026

Like poinsettias and mums, these plants flower under short days. —Brian Bell, The Orlando Sentinel, 3 Jan. 2026

Keep your poinsettia well away from drafty windows and doors, heating vents, and fireplaces. —Leanne Potts, Better Homes & Gardens, 21 Dec. 2025

Surround yourself with ferns of all shapes and sizes, from towering ferns to maidenhairs and seasonal poinsettias. —Caroline Ritzie, Cincinnati Enquirer, 21 Dec. 2025

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