Boston fern

noun

: a luxuriant fern (Nephrolepis exaltata) often with drooping much-divided fronds

Examples of Boston fern in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Safer plant alternatives include parlor palms, calathea, spider plants, Boston ferns and African violets. — Ryan Brennan, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 15 July 2026 Spider plants, Boston ferns, orchids and areca palms are non-toxic alternatives. — Ryan Brennan, Miami Herald, 14 July 2026 Boston fern is the go-to for hanging baskets lining Southern porches and for good reason. — Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 4 May 2026 The popular Boston fern can reach three feet high and encroach on your living space. — Lee Wallender, The Spruce, 4 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for Boston fern

Word History

First Known Use

1896, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of Boston fern was in 1896

Rhymes for Boston fern

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Browse Nearby Words

Bostonese
Boston fern
Bostonian
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Cite this Entry

“Boston fern.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Boston%20fern. Accessed 16 Jul. 2026.

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