root rot

noun

: any of various plant diseases characterized by decay of the roots and caused especially by fungi

Examples of root rot in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Most plants need soil with pockets of air, which allows water to easily drain and prevents root rot. Madeline Buiano, Martha Stewart, 23 May 2026 Only repot pothos during winter if your plants are suffering from root rot or another major issue. Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 19 May 2026 Either way, the presence of the nutsedge has given a clear roadmap for corrective maintenance on an issue that often isn’t noticeable until root rot sets in. Anthony Reardon, Kansas City Star, 18 May 2026 Plant oregano in well-draining soil to avoid root rot. Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 17 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for root rot

Word History

First Known Use

1831, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of root rot was in 1831

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Cite this Entry

“Root rot.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/root%20rot. Accessed 27 May. 2026.

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