/euh zayl"yeuh/ , n.
any of numerous shrubs belonging to a particular group (Azalea) of the genus Rhododendron, of the heath family, comprising species with handsome flower clusters of various colors, some of which are familiar in cultivation: the group was formerly the botanical genus Azalea but is now a horticultural classification.
[ 1750-60; azaléa, n. use of fem. of azaléos dry; so named because it grows in dry soil ]