spathe

noun

\ ˈspāt͟h

How to pronounce spathe (audio)

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Definition of spathe

: a sheathing bract or pair of bracts partly enclosing an inflorescence and especially a spadix on the same axis the spathe of the calla lily

Examples of spathe in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Look for a maroon spathe (basically a leaf that covers a flower) and get close enough to get a whiff of its namesake. — Chelsey Lewis, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, "Here are some Wisconsin wildflowers and wildlife to look for on your socially distanced walks this spring," 2 Apr. 2020 The spathe on the corpse flower is striped green and white on the outside and a meaty red within. — Ciscoe Morris, The Seattle Times, "There’s a reason they call it a corpse flower," 31 May 2017

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'spathe.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

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Cite this Entry

“Spathe.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/spathe. Accessed 7 Mar. 2021.

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