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

Our front yard is a relatively small area with trees and philodendrons. —Tom MacCubbin, Orlando Sentinel, 15 June 2024

Water captured from the roof dribbles down its face, from which maidenhair ferns and philodendrons sprout. —Erica Gies, Scientific American, 1 Dec. 2018

The all-purpose potting mix works well for a variety of common indoor plants, such as pothos, spider plants, monstera, philodendron, and English ivy. —Renee Freemon Mulvihill, Better Homes & Gardens, 2 May 2024

The 1,200 species of plants include orchids, fruit trees, spices, ferns and philodendrons. —Amy Schwabe, Journal Sentinel, 23 Jan. 2024

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

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