biennial

bi·en·ni·al

adjective \(ˌ)bī-ˈe-nē-əl\

Definition of BIENNIAL

1

: occurring every two years

2

: continuing or lasting for two years; specifically : growing vegetatively during the first year and fruiting and dying during the second

See Usage Discussion at bi-

— biennial noun

— bi·en·ni·al·ly \-ə-lē\ adverb

Examples of BIENNIAL

1. The governor explained the biennial budget proposal.

First Known Use of BIENNIAL

1562

Other Number-Related Terms

jubilee, myriad, quarantine, score, twain

Rhymes with BIENNIAL

centennial, decennial, millennial, perennial, quadrennial, quinquennial, septennial, triennial, vicennial

biennial

noun    (Concise Encyclopedia)

Any plant that completes its life cycle in two growing seasons. During the first growing season biennials produce roots, stems, and leaves; during the second they produce flowers, fruits, and seeds, and then die. Sugar beets and carrots are examples of biennials. See also annual, perennial.