: 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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To get on the trend, fill containers on your PET-io and garden beds with pet-safe plants like zinnias, daylilies, ferns, marigolds, roses, and blueberry bushes.
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Leanne Potts, Better Homes & Gardens, 7 Jan. 2026
The mosaic and the ferns and the climbing vines.
—Allegra Goodman, New Yorker, 4 Jan. 2026
Outside, a tranquil brick courtyard is lined with palms and ferns.
—AFAR Media, 30 Dec. 2025
Grow ferns in a cool, shaded indoor space or outside in an area protected from the sun during summer.
—Madeline Buiano, Martha Stewart, 29 Dec. 2025
See All Example Sentences for fern
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Leanne Potts, Better Homes & Gardens, 7 Jan. 2026
The mosaic and the ferns and the climbing vines.
—Allegra Goodman, New Yorker, 4 Jan. 2026
Outside, a tranquil brick courtyard is lined with palms and ferns.
—AFAR Media, 30 Dec. 2025
Grow ferns in a cool, shaded indoor space or outside in an area protected from the sun during summer.
—Madeline Buiano, Martha Stewart, 29 Dec. 2025
See All Example Sentences for fern
Cite this Entry
“Fern.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fern. Accessed 11 Jan. 2026.
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