male fern

noun

: a fern (Dryopteris filix-mas) producing an oleoresin used in expelling tapeworms

Word History

First Known Use

1562, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of male fern was in 1562

Rhymes for male fern

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malefactress
male fern
malefic
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Cite this Entry

“Male fern.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/male%20fern. Accessed 8 Jul. 2025.

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Medical Definition

male fern

noun
: a fern (Dryopteris filix-mas) of Europe and North America producing an oleoresin that is used in expelling tapeworms see aspidium
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