philodendron

noun

phil·​o·​den·​dron ˌfi-lə-ˈden-drən 

plural philodendrons also philodendra ˌfi-lə-ˈden-drə 

: any of various aroid plants (as of the genus Philodendron) that are cultivated for their showy foliage

Illustration of philodendron

Examples of philodendron in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Generally, most philodendrons are easy to propagate; vining types of philodendrons sprout roots particularly fast. —Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 13 Jan. 2026

Hether recommends low-maintenance philodendrons or fine leaf ferns, a recent favorite addition to her bathroom. —Kristin Hohenadel, The Spruce, 12 Jan. 2026

Meanwhile, the almost-impossible-to-kill philodendrons that had always flourished in that location slowly died. —Inga, San Diego Union-Tribune, 27 Oct. 2025

As a beautiful bonus, the anthuriums, orchids and philodendrons dotting the grounds guarantee the hotel looks gorgeous all year. —Spencer Whaley, Forbes.com, 15 Apr. 2025

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Greek, neuter of philodendros loving trees, from phil- + dendron tree — more at dendr-

First Known Use

1877, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing philodendron

• cutleaf philodendron
• split leaf philodendron

Rhymes for philodendron

• rhododendron
• endrin

Kids Definition

philodendron

noun

philo·​den·​dron

ˌfil-ə-ˈden-drən

plural philodendrons also philodendra

-drə

: any of several plants of the arum family that are often grown for their showy usually shiny leaves