terrarium

noun

ter·​rar·​i·​um tə-ˈrer-ē-əm 

plural terraria tə-ˈrer-ē-ə  or terrariums

: a usually transparent enclosure for keeping or raising plants or usually small animals (such as turtles) indoors

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A Terrarium at the Zoo

The turtle exhibit at a zoo is often in the form of a terrarium, as are some of the exhibits at a plant conservatory. In an ant terrarium, elementary-school students watch the ants dig their network of tunnels as if no one were watching. Terrariums try to create conditions as close as possible to a natural habitat. A covered terrarium can often sustain itself for months on the moisture trapped inside. But creating a good terrarium requires careful control not only of humidity but also of temperature, as well as good ventilation; the lighting should include the full spectrum of sunlight as well as a day-night regulator.

Examples of terrarium in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

In the lobby, my eyes were drawn to the terrarium at the check-in desk. —Travel + Leisure Editors, Travel + Leisure, 16 Apr. 2025

Visitors can create a terrarium, participate in an outdoor scavenger hunt, learn sustainable gardening tips and explore an eco-friendly tiny home. —Patrick Connolly, The Orlando Sentinel, 8 Apr. 2025

Shot in unique settings like a terrarium and an aquarium, these visuals symbolize comfort and familiarity—contrasted by striking, avant-garde designs that push her artistry into new territory. —Billboard Korea, Billboard, 18 Mar. 2025

One day, the snake escaped from its terrarium in the garage. —Stephen S. Hall, Time, 21 Apr. 2025

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Latin terra + -arium (as in vivarium)

First Known Use

1890, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for terrarium

• fusarium
• solarium
• thorium

Kids Definition

terrarium

noun

ter·​rar·​i·​um tə-ˈrar-ē-əm 

-ˈrer-

plural terraria

-ē-ə

or terrariums

: a transparent enclosure used for keeping and observing small animals and plants indoors