snapdragon

noun

snap·​drag·​on ˈsnap-ˌdra-gən 

: any of a genus (Antirrhinum of the family Plantaginaceae, the plantain family) of herbs having showy bilabiate flowers

especially : a widely cultivated one (A. majus) of Mediterranean origin having usually pink, red, yellow, or white flowers

Illustration of snapdragon

Examples of snapdragon in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Sometimes called the summer snapdragon, it isn't bothered by heat and requires less watering than most flowers—even when grown in pots. —Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 3 June 2025

Try some French marigolds, short snapdragon varieties, or begonias. Add a spiller, such as petunias or sweet potato vines, to cascade down the front of the pot. —Andy Wilcox, Better Homes & Gardens, 3 June 2025

The bees in this genus are known to be efficient snapdragon pollinators. —Laura Baisas, Popular Science, 21 May 2025

The sound of the bees appears to trigger the snapdragons to increase their sugar and nectar volume. —Laura Baisas, Popular Science, 21 May 2025

Word History

Etymology

from the fancied resemblance of the flowers to the face of a dragon

First Known Use

1573, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for snapdragon

• anlagen
• bandwagon
• agone
• dragon
• lagan
• waggon
• wagon

Kids Definition

snapdragon

noun

snap·​drag·​on ˈsnap-ˌdrag-ən 

: a widely grown herb having showy usually pink, red, white, or yellow two-lipped flowers