Definition

A tall plant with large yellow flowers that turn to face the sun and produce seeds that can be eaten or used to make oil.

Example

The sunflower in my garden grew taller than I expected and bloomed beautifully.

Conversation

I saw the most beautiful sunflower garden yesterday.

That sounds amazing! I love how bright and cheerful they are.

Yeah, I took so many pictures of the sunflowers.

I can imagine! They really brighten up any place.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Sunflower is formed from "sun" (from Old English "sunne", meaning the star that provides light and warmth) and "flower" (from Old English "flōwe", meaning the reproductive structure of a plant). The word "sunflower" refers to a flower that resembles the sun and often turns to face it.

Memory Tip

Think of the 'sun' shining brightly and the 'flower' blooming towards it — that's why a sunflower is a flower that follows the sun.

Visually Confused Words