camellia

American  

[kuh-meel-yuh, -mee-lee-uh] / kəˈmil yə, -ˈmi li ə /

noun

1. any of several shrubs of the genus Camellia, especially C. japonica, native to Asia, having glossy evergreen leaves and white, pink, red, or variegated roselike flowers.

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camellia British  

/ kəˈmiːlɪə /

noun

1. Also called: japonica.  any ornamental shrub of the Asian genus Camellia, esp C. japonica, having glossy evergreen leaves and showy roselike flowers, usually white, pink or red in colour: family Theaceae

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Etymology

Origin of camellia

1745–55; named after G. J. Camellus (1661–1706), Jesuit missionary, who brought it to Europe; -ia

Example Sentences

But the nursery’s massive oak tree and many of its tall camellia trees appeared unscathed.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 15, 2025

The curiously curated common camellia from Portugal was a strong runner-up.

From BBC • Mar. 20, 2024

A few looks paid homage to the camellia, Chanel's signature flower, and bridal wear, which Lagerfeld was best known for designing and showcasing.

From Salon • May 2, 2023

In the 1940s, a son, William Gordon Hayward, began packing red beans and branded the company for his wife’s favorite flower: the camellia.

From New York Times • Mar. 13, 2023

The birds all twitter up in a huff when they see me coming, making the camellia bush rattle.

From "The Help" by Kathryn Stockett