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achene

noun
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\ ə-ˈkēn How to pronounce achene (audio) \

Definition of achene

: a small dry indehiscent one-seeded fruit (as of a sunflower) developing from a simple ovary and usually having a thin pericarp attached to the seed at only one point

Examples of achene in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Think of the seeds (achenes) on the outside of a berry. — Ellen Nibali, baltimoresun.com, "Garden Q&A: The perfect flower for Fourth of July and misshapen strawberries," 27 June 2019 Think of the seeds (achenes) on the outside of a berry. — Ellen Nibali, baltimoresun.com, "Garden Q&A: The perfect flower for Fourth of July and misshapen strawberries," 27 June 2019

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'achene.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

First Known Use of achene

1855, in the meaning defined above

History and Etymology for achene

borrowed from French achène, akène, borrowed from New Latin achena, from a- a- entry 2 + -chena, feminine noun derivative from the stem of Greek chaínein "to yawn, gape" — more at yawn entry 1

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Time Traveler for achene

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The first known use of achene was in 1855

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Cite this Entry

“Achene.” The Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster Inc., https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/achene. Accessed 25 January 2020.

More from Merriam-Webster on achene

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about achene

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