xylem

xy·lem

noun \ˈzī-ləm, -ˌlem\

Definition of XYLEM

: a complex tissue in the vascular system of higher plants that consists of vessels, tracheids, or both usually together with wood fibers and parenchyma cells, functions chiefly in conduction of water and dissolved minerals but also in support and food storage, and typically constitutes the woody element (as of a plant stem) — compare phloem

Origin of XYLEM

German, from Greek xylon

First Known Use: 1873

Other Botany Terms

annual, burgeon, chloroplast, nomenclature, succulent, sylvan

Rhymes with XYLEM

hilum, phylum, whilom