Begonias

/bɪˈɡoʊniəz/ noun

Definition

Plural of begonia; multiple begonia plants or varieties.

Etymology

Simple plural of begonia formed by adding -s ending.

Kelly Says

The plural 'begonias' is so common in gardening contexts that most people know it well—it's a word that's become part of everyday language through the popularity of the plant itself.

Ethical Language Guidance

Gender History

Plural of begonia; inherits the male-centered naming legacy of the genus, which was named for Michel Bégon (colonial governor) rather than the women horticulturists and botanists who documented and cultivated the species.

Inclusive Usage

Use without modification; when discussing begonia cultivation or breeding, credit female horticulturists, gardeners, and botanists involved in variety development and species documentation.

Empowerment Note

Female begonia enthusiasts and professional horticulturists in Britain, Europe, and America drove the explosion of begonia varieties in Victorian and Edwardian horticulture; their names and contributions deserve recognition in horticultural histories.

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