wallflower

noun

wall·​flow·​er ˈwȯl-ˌflau̇(-ə)r How to pronounce wallflower (audio)
1
: any of several Old World perennial herbs (genus Erysimum synonym Cheiranthus) of the mustard family
especially : a hardy erect herb (E. cheiri synonym C. cheiri) widely cultivated for its showy fragrant flowers
2
a
: a person who from shyness or unpopularity remains on the sidelines of a social activity (such as a dance)
b
: a shy or reserved person

Illustration of wallflower

Illustration of wallflower
  • wallflower 1a

Examples of wallflower in a Sentence

there were too many wallflowers at the party, so things never really got lively
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.
But thanks to familial connections to the Mexican ambassador in London, wallflower Isabel is poised to unearth any British intelligence hidden by the ton that might aid Mexico during the French Occupation. Sarah Yang, Sunset Magazine, 15 Sep. 2024 To be a wallflower at the Studio Museum in Harlem’s annual gala one must be equipped for whip-smart stories and be ever-ready for poignant details on the ongoing endeavors of the institution. Robyn Mowatt, Essence, 30 Oct. 2024 At first a wallflower dressed in cutsey florals, Penelope’s confidence and style evolved into more mature, deep gem tones. Victoria Montalti, refinery29.com, 17 Oct. 2024 Each option is also elevated–not one of these designs is for wallflowers–they’re for those who like to stick out in a room or just in the office, according to Blackwood. Robyn Mowatt, Essence, 27 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for wallflower 

Word History

First Known Use

1577, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of wallflower was in 1577

Dictionary Entries Near wallflower

Cite this Entry

“Wallflower.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/wallflower. Accessed 21 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

wallflower

noun
wall·​flow·​er ˈwȯl-ˌflau̇(-ə)r How to pronounce wallflower (audio)
: a person who from shyness or unpopularity remains alone (as at a dance)

More from Merriam-Webster on wallflower

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

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