peony
UK[ˈpiːəni]US[ˈpiːəni]
n
a garden plant with large round flowers that are dark red, pink, or white.
Etymology
the word 'peony' has a long and winding etymological journey, ultimately rooted in classical mythology. it derives from the latin 'paeonia', which came from the greek 'paiōnia', a term for the plant. the greek name is believed to be connected to 'paiōn', an epithet of apollo meaning 'healer', as the plant was valued for its medicinal properties in antiquity. over centuries, the word passed through old english as 'peonie' and old french as 'peone', before solidifying into its modern english form, retaining its association with the showy, fragrant flower.
Analysis
the word is a simplex loanword. it does not contain separable morphemes within its modern english spelling.
Examples
the garden was a riot of color, with peonies in full bloom.
she received a beautiful bouquet of pink peonies for her birthday.
the peony is often considered a symbol of prosperity and good fortune.