aspidistra

noun

as·​pi·​dis·​tra ˌa-spə-ˈdi-strə 

: an Asian plant (Aspidistra elatior) of the lily family that has large pointed basal leaves and is often grown as a foliage plant

Examples of aspidistra in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

When Avent started out, there were just 12 recognized species of aspidistra. —Adrian Higgins, Washington Post, 17 Sep. 2019

The aspidistra is remembered as a foolproof potted plant for the gloomiest Victorian parlor, but Avent has brought aspidistras out into the garden as scientists have introduced them to the West. —Adrian Higgins, Washington Post, 17 Sep. 2019

There are many types to choose from, including hollies, boxwoods, rhododendrons, and aspidistra, with more new dwarf varieties being released each season. —Timothy Dahl, Popular Mechanics, 1 Mar. 2018

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, irregular from Greek aspid-, aspis shield

First Known Use

1822, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

aspidistra

noun

as·​pi·​dis·​tra ˌas-pə-ˈdis-trə 

: an Asian plant related to the lilies, having large leaves at the base of the stem, and often grown as a houseplant