palm

¹palm

noun \ˈpäm, ˈpälm, ˈpȯm, ˈpȯlm\

Definition of PALM

1

: any of a family (Palmae syn. Arecaceae) of mostly tropical or subtropical monocotyledonous trees, shrubs, or vines with usually a simple stem and a terminal crown of large pinnate or fan-shaped leaves

2

: a leaf of the palm as a symbol of victory or rejoicing; also : a branch (as of laurel) similarly used

3

: a symbol of triumph or superiority; also : victory, triumph

4

: an addition to a military decoration in the form of a palm frond especially to indicate a second award of the basic decoration

— palm·like \-ˌlīk\ adjective

Illustration of PALM

Origin of PALM

Middle English, from Old English, from Latin palma palm of the hand, palm tree; from the resemblance of the tree's leaves to the outstretched hand; akin to Greek palamē palm of the hand, Old English folm, Old Irish lám hand

First Known Use: before 12th century

Other Seed Plant Terms

aubergine, box, bramble, briar, composite, perpetual, pulse, trefoil

Rhymes with PALM

bomb, bombe, calm, gaum, Guam, glom, mom, Pom, pram, prom, psalm, ROM, tom