: any of a division (Polypodiophyta) or class (Polypodiopsida) of flowerless spore-producing vascular plants having alternating sporophyte and gametophyte generations
especially
: any of an order (Polypodiales) of homosporous plants possessing roots, stems, and leaflike fronds compare seed fern
Examples of fern in a Sentence
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Myersii) is sometimes called foxtail fern due to its soft, surrogate leaves known as cladodes, each of which resembles a bushy, vulpine rear appendage.
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Joshua Siskin, Oc Register, 21 Feb. 2026
These materials are timeless year-round and easily adapt with seasonal items like pumpkins and mums in the fall, fresh boxwoods and hydrangeas in the spring, and lush ferns in the summer.
—Lauren Jones, Southern Living, 18 Feb. 2026
Seen as an extension of the green drenching trend—where homeowners layer greens like compact conifers, ferns, evergreen shrubs, and vines to create a lush atmosphere—this garden design also provides a soothing backdrop.
—Michele Laufik, Martha Stewart, 16 Feb. 2026
In shade, hostas, ferns, and even some of the shade grasses can carry you through the warmer months in style.
—Paul Cappiello, Louisville Courier Journal, 13 Feb. 2026
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Joshua Siskin, Oc Register, 21 Feb. 2026
These materials are timeless year-round and easily adapt with seasonal items like pumpkins and mums in the fall, fresh boxwoods and hydrangeas in the spring, and lush ferns in the summer.
—Lauren Jones, Southern Living, 18 Feb. 2026
Seen as an extension of the green drenching trend—where homeowners layer greens like compact conifers, ferns, evergreen shrubs, and vines to create a lush atmosphere—this garden design also provides a soothing backdrop.
—Michele Laufik, Martha Stewart, 16 Feb. 2026
In shade, hostas, ferns, and even some of the shade grasses can carry you through the warmer months in style.
—Paul Cappiello, Louisville Courier Journal, 13 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for fern
Cite this Entry
“Fern.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fern. Accessed 22 Feb. 2026.
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