bur reed

noun

: any of a genus (Sparganium of the family Sparganiaceae) of herbaceous plants with globose fruits resembling burs

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web Another grain was found that appears to be from Sparganium, or bur reed. —

Andrew Moseman, Discover Magazine, 19 Oct. 2010

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

Word History

First Known Use

1597, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of bur reed was in 1597

See more words from the same year

Cite this Entry

Style

“Bur reed.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bur%20reed. Accessed 23 Mar. 2023.

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