nectary

noun

nec·​tary ˈnek-t(ə-)rē How to pronounce nectary (audio)
plural nectaries
: a plant gland that secretes nectar

Examples of nectary in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The flowers produce tiny nectaries sized just right to draw in syrphid flies, ladybeetles, and parasitoid wasps, all of which feed on aphids. Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 15 Apr. 2025 Extrafloral nectaries are found on peony buds and as a pair of glands at the base of cherry leaves, for example. Miri Talabac, Baltimore Sun, 23 Jan. 2025 But other plants produce different types of nectar glands called extrafloral nectaries. Jacob S. Suissa, The Conversation, 20 June 2024 The nectaries on borage refill far more quickly than those of many other species, meaning that there is more nectar to go around. Elizabeth Waddington, Treehugger, 10 Mar. 2023

Word History

Etymology

New Latin nectarium, irregular from Latin nectar + -arium -ary

First Known Use

1759, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of nectary was in 1759

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Nectary.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/nectary. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

nectary

noun
nec·​tary ˈnek-t(ə-)rē How to pronounce nectary (audio)
plural nectaries
: a plant gland that secretes nectar

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