Main Entry: sphag·num

Pronunciation: \ˈsfag-nəm\

Function: noun

1 : any of an order (Sphagnales, containing a single genus Sphagnum) of atypical mosses that grow only in wet acid areas where their remains become compacted with other plant debris to form peat
2 : a mass of dehydrated sphagnum plants used as a surgical dressing especially during World War I