bract

noun

1
: a leaf from the axil of which a flower or floral axis arises
2
: a leaf borne on a floral axis
especially : one subtending a flower or flower cluster
bracteal adjective
bracteate adjective
bracted adjective

Examples of bract 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.
These bracts are produced without interruption from spring until fall and beyond. Joshua Siskin, Oc Register, 3 July 2025 Plants add stunning texture and shining color to the garden with metallic, lavender-blue bracts surrounding flowers that stand erect on purple stems. Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 6 June 2025 Concurrently, the pH of the planting medium determines the color of the floral bracts on mophead hydrangeas. Neil Sperry, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 6 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for bract

Word History

Etymology

New Latin bractea, from Latin, thin metal plate

First Known Use

1771, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of bract was in 1771

Cite this Entry

“Bract.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bract. Accessed 10 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

bract

noun
: a small leaf or leaflike structure at the base of a flower or flower cluster
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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