sunflower

noun

sun·​flow·​er ˈsən-ˌflau̇(-ə)r 

: any of a genus (Helianthus, especially H. annuus) of New World composite plants with large yellow-rayed flower heads bearing edible seeds that yield an edible oil

Examples of sunflower in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Wild sunflowers—the Kansas state bloom—tower overhead throughout the summer. —Erika Ebsworth-Goold, Midwest Living, 20 Apr. 2026

In addition to the sunflower seed celebration with Hernández, KK’s wish — the 1,000th granted since Make-A-Wish and Fanatics partnered in 2023 — included a tour, field passes for batting practice, and extra time with Freeman before the game. —Maddie Lee, Los Angeles Times, 17 Apr. 2026

Good candidates for succession planting include zinnias, sunflowers, ammi, cosmos, and marigolds. —Arricca Elin Sansone, Southern Living, 16 Apr. 2026

Wally spits sunflower seed shells onto the brown sand. —Literary Hub, 14 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1597, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for sunflower

• airpower
• brainpower
• devour
• empower
• firepower
• horsepower
• manpower
• mayflower
• safflower
• wallflower
• watchtower
• wildflower

Kids Definition

sunflower

noun

sun·​flow·​er -ˌflau̇(-ə)r 

: any of a genus of tall herbs that are often grown for their large showy flower heads with yellow ray flowers and for their oil-rich seeds