wallflower

noun

wall·​flow·​er ˈwȯl-ˌflau̇(-ə)r 

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

• wallflower 1a

Synonyms

• introvert
• shrinking violet

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

But when she’s pushed over the edge and loses control, the wallflower is gone, replaced by a young woman capable of anything. —Zac Ntim, Deadline, 3 Dec. 2024

Tyson revels in every comedic moment available to Baby June, while Woods does a wonderful job of showcasing Louise’s transformative journey from insecure wallflower to standout star. —Dave Quinn, People.com, 20 Dec. 2024

As if this all wasn’t enough, the brand gave shoppers three-wick candles for $13, $4 fragrance mists, and $3 wallflowers fragrance refills. —Katie Decker-Jacoby, StyleCaster, 22 Nov. 2024

The wallflower being bullied by the obnoxious rapper has a callous side. —Shirley Li, The Atlantic, 26 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1577, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

wallflower

noun

wall·​flow·​er ˈwȯl-ˌflau̇(-ə)r 

: a person who from shyness or unpopularity remains alone (as at a dance)