bougainvillia

noun

bou·​gain·​vil·​lia ˌbü-gən-ˈvil-yə 

ˌbō-,

ˌbu̇-,

-ˈvē-ə

1

capitalized : a widely distributed genus of marine hydrozoans forming arborescent colonies and having polyps with a single whorl of tentacles

2

plural -s : bougainvillea

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Louis Antoine de Bougainville + New Latin -ia

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now