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

Dictionary Entries Near male fern

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 19 Apr. 2024.

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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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