: 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
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Key Takeaways Eating raw sunflower seeds is a simple way to enjoy their benefits, including vitamin E, magnesium, and healthy fats. Lauren Panoff, Verywell Health, 20 Aug. 2026 Among the summer-blooming flowers gracing its beds and trellises are poppies, dahlias, sunflowers, and clematis. News Desk, Artforum, 20 Aug. 2026 Throughout their time at the zoo, the rats have maintained their smelling skills and their work through daily training and lots of treats, including sunflower seeds and special smoothies. Camila Pedrosa, Sacbee.com, 20 Aug. 2026 The popular corn maze and sunflower gardens flooded, adding uncertainty to whether the former will be ready as usual for Conner Prairie's high-profile fall festivals. John Tufts, IndyStar, 19 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for sunflower

Word History

First Known Use

1597, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of sunflower was in 1597

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Cite this Entry

“Sunflower.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sunflower. Accessed 24 Aug. 2026.

Kids Definition

sunflower

noun
: 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

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