peony

noun

pe·​o·​ny ˈpē-ə-nē How to pronounce peony (audio)
plural peonies
1
: any of a genus (Paeonia of the family Paeoniaceae) of chiefly Eurasian plants with large often double flowers
2
: the flower of a peony

Examples of peony 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.
The perfume opens with a bright pop of dragon fruit nectar, then settles into smooth vanilla with subtle peony undertones. — Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 26 Oct. 2026 The shop will carry orchids, roses, dahlias, peonies, hydrangeas, and other seasonal flowers in addition to arrangements for weddings, corporate events and other occasions. — Emma Hall, Sacbee.com, 24 Oct. 2026 While hydrangeas lack the fragrance that peonies offer, that can be a benefit for some scent-sensitive wedding parties—especially when used en masse in a backdrop. — Sophia Beams, Better Homes & Gardens, 13 Oct. 2026 Do cut back plants with diseased foliage (peonies with powdery mildew, for example) to prevent reinfection next year. — Pam Rosendal, Denver Post, 27 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for peony

Word History

Etymology

Middle English piony, from Anglo-French peonie, pioiné, from Latin paeonia, from Greek paiōnia, from Paiōn Paeon, physician of the gods

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of peony was in the 14th century

Phrases Containing peony

Browse Nearby Words

peonize
peony
peony-flowered
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Peony.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/peony. Accessed 2 Nov. 2026.

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Kids Definition

peony

noun
pe·​o·​ny ˈpē-ə-nē How to pronounce peony (audio)
plural peonies
: any of a genus of plants that are widely grown for their large red, pink, or white flowers

More from Merriam-Webster on peony

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about peony

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