Plumeria: meaning, definitions and examples

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plumeria

 

[ pluˈmɛrɪə ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

plant species

Plumeria, commonly known as frangipani, is a genus of flowering plants in the dogbane family, Apocynaceae. These tropical plants are known for their fragrant flowers and are often used in lei-making and decorative purposes in tropical regions.

Synonyms

frangipani, lei flower

Examples of usage

  • The plumeria tree thrives in warm, tropical climates.
  • Plumeria flowers are often associated with Hawaiian culture.
  • I planted plumeria in my garden for its beautiful blooms.

Word origin

The word 'plumeria' comes from the name of the French botanist Charles Plumier, who studied the plants of the Caribbean in the late 17th century. He described the genus in a report for the French Academy of Sciences. Plumeria plants are native to tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas, and they have been cultivated in various parts of the world for their attractive flowers and leaves. Over time, plumerias have become a significant part of Polynesian culture, particularly in Hawaii, where they are commonly used in traditional leis. The flowers carry deep symbolic meanings, representing various emotions and cultural beliefs in different societies.