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terrarium

noun ter·rar·i·um \ tə-ˈrer-ē-əm \
|Updated on: 12 Jun 2018

Definition of terrarium

plural terraria play \tə-ˈrer-ē-ə\ or terrariums
: a usually transparent enclosure for keeping or raising plants or usually small animals (such as turtles) indoors

See terrarium defined for English-language learners

See terrarium defined for kids

Recent Examples of terrarium from the Web

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

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.

Origin and Etymology of terrarium

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

TERRARIUM Defined for English Language Learners

terrarium

noun

Definition of terrarium for English Language Learners

  • : a glass or plastic box that is used for growing plants or keeping small animals indoors

TERRARIUM Defined for Kids

terrarium

noun ter·rar·i·um \ tə-ˈrer-ē-əm \

Definition of terrarium for Students

plural terraria \-ē-ə\ or terrariums
: a usually glass container used for keeping plants or small animals (as turtles) indoors

Learn More about terrarium

  1. See words that rhyme with terrarium Nglish: Translation of terrarium for Spanish speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about terrarium

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