sedge

noun

: any of a family (Cyperaceae, the sedge family) of usually tufted monocotyledonous marsh plants differing from the related grasses in having achenes and solid stems
especially : any of a cosmopolitan genus (Carex)
sedgy adjective

Examples of sedge 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.
Around us stretches a muted landscape of bunchgrass and sedges, rolling to meet the rocky outcroppings of the Andes. David Nolan, Smithsonian Magazine, 8 July 2025 There are over 2,000 species of sedges (Carex) and many thrive in the shade. Lauren David, Southern Living, 6 July 2025 Two of the most popular species found at retail stores in our area are white-tinged sedge (Carex albicans) and Pennsylvania sedge (Carex pensylvanica). Markis Hill, Kansas City Star, 20 June 2025 Lemon Lime, Blush Pink, Flirt 10 Carex Botanical Name: Carex spp Sun Exposure: Shade to part shade Soil Type: Average, well-draining Soil pH: Acidic to alkaline Carex, or sedges, are mounding plants with grass-like foliage. Arricca Elin Sansone, Southern Living, 30 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for sedge

Word History

Etymology

Middle English segge, from Old English secg; akin to Middle High German segge sedge, Old English sagu saw — more at saw

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of sedge was before the 12th century

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Cite this Entry

“Sedge.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sedge. Accessed 15 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

sedge

noun
: any of a family of plants of marshy areas that are related to the grasses and have solid often three-sided stems

More from Merriam-Webster on sedge

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