: 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
Recent Examples on the Web
Suspend trailing pothos or ferns from hooks that clamp onto an overhang, or use tension rods to create a floating curtain of greenery.
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Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Charlotte Observer, 22 Apr. 2026
This easygoing collection of tropical-punch colors combines pale caladiums with rosy centers, purple-and-green Magilla perilla, the dark purple leaves of calathea 'Dottie', and a few ferns (including a feathery ghost fern).
—Midwest Living, 22 Apr. 2026
Its fern-like foliage and feathery blooms add texture to any garden and contrast nicely with the hosta's smooth, mounding appearance.
—Cori Sears, The Spruce, 21 Apr. 2026
The Olson/Binder garden in Poway, which features a collection of award-winning Staghorn ferns, an orchid greenhouse, a variety of fruit trees and a gazebo from which visitors can enjoy the view.
—Elizabeth Marie Himchak, San Diego Union-Tribune, 21 Apr. 2026
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Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Charlotte Observer, 22 Apr. 2026
This easygoing collection of tropical-punch colors combines pale caladiums with rosy centers, purple-and-green Magilla perilla, the dark purple leaves of calathea 'Dottie', and a few ferns (including a feathery ghost fern).
—Midwest Living, 22 Apr. 2026
Its fern-like foliage and feathery blooms add texture to any garden and contrast nicely with the hosta's smooth, mounding appearance.
—Cori Sears, The Spruce, 21 Apr. 2026
The Olson/Binder garden in Poway, which features a collection of award-winning Staghorn ferns, an orchid greenhouse, a variety of fruit trees and a gazebo from which visitors can enjoy the view.
—Elizabeth Marie Himchak, San Diego Union-Tribune, 21 Apr. 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 24 Apr. 2026.
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