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spathe

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noun \ ˈspāt͟h \

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

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Recent Examples of spathe from the Web

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.

Origin and Etymology of spathe

New Latin spatha, from Latin, broadsword — more at spade

Learn More about spathe

  1. See words that rhyme with spathe Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about spathe

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