dahlia

noun

dahl·​ia ˈdal-yə  ˈdäl- 

 US also and British usually  ˈdāl-

: any of a genus (Dahlia) of American tuberous-rooted composite herbs having opposite pinnate leaves and rayed flower heads and including many that are cultivated as ornamentals

Examples of dahlia in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

These can be reused in the warmer months for floppy summer blooms such as peonies, zinnias, and dahlias. —Kristin Guy, Sunset Magazine, 15 Oct. 2024

The lehenga features dahlias, jasmine and Indian lotus, which symbolize strength and beauty. —Kimmy Yam, NBC News, 4 Oct. 2024

So harvest those remaining tomatoes (even the green ones); cut bouquets of dahlias, zinnias, and marigolds; make pesto with the last of your basil; pickle the cucumbers; or pick a pint of peppers when a cold snap is coming. —Charlotte Germane, Better Homes & Gardens, 28 Sep. 2024

These are engulfing along with smells coming from dahlias, carnations, gladiolas, poppies and peonies springing from the 12,920-square-foot urban flower farm at the foot of Belleville’s reservoir. —Jennifer Weil, WWD, 20 Sep. 2024

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, genus name, from Anders Dahl †1789 Swedish botanist

First Known Use

1835, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

dahlia

noun

dahl·​ia ˈdal-yə  ˈdäl- 

: any of a genus of American herbs related to the daisies and having brightly colored flower heads and a root that is a tuber