sweet pea

noun

1
: a widely cultivated Italian legume (Lathyrus odoratus) having slender usually climbing stems, ovate leaves, and large fragrant flowers
2
: the flower of a sweet pea

Examples of sweet pea in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Trellises are typically made of wood or metal and support an assortment of vining ornamentals, including sweet peas, morning glories, and climbing hydrangea. Lauren Landers, The Spruce, 15 Apr. 2026 Surfaces were covered by huge arrangements of purple foxgloves, hellebores, and sweet peas. John Wogan, Travel + Leisure, 11 Apr. 2026 This bright pasta brings together sweet peas and smoky charred scallions for a simple dish that feels fresh yet deeply flavorful. Olivia McIntosh, Martha Stewart, 31 Mar. 2026 Look for tender asparagus, baby spinach, and sweet peas at the market. Kimberly Holland, Southern Living, 9 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for sweet pea

Word History

First Known Use

1732, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of sweet pea was in 1732

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Sweet pea.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sweet%20pea. Accessed 21 Apr. 2026.

Kids Definition

sweet pea

noun
1
: a widely grown Italian herb of the legume family with slender climbing stems and large fragrant flowers
2
: the flower of a sweet pea

More from Merriam-Webster on sweet pea

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster