1
: a large leaf (especially of a palm or fern) usually with many divisions
2
: a thallus or thalloid shoot (as of a lichen or seaweed) resembling a leaf
fronded adjective

Examples of frond in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Many wait until lots of dead or declining fronds accumulate and then have only these removed. Tom MacCubbin, The Orlando Sentinel, 14 June 2025 Koru translates to loop or coil in Māori, and is based on the spiral shape of an unfurling silver fern frond, as a necklace. Madison E. Goldberg, People.com, 24 June 2025 The structure features a veranda and dome topped with a waterproof palm frond roof. Lee Sharrock, Forbes.com, 22 June 2025 In truth, the rifles were actually palm fronds shaped to look like guns. Jeff Chu, Travel + Leisure, 16 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for frond

Word History

Etymology

Latin frond-, frons foliage

First Known Use

1785, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of frond was in 1785

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Cite this Entry

“Frond.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/frond. Accessed 13 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

frond

noun
: a large leaf especially of a fern or palm tree that often has many divisions

More from Merriam-Webster on frond

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