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zea

noun
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\ ˈzēə \

Definition of zea

1 capitalized : a genus of large grasses having broad ribbon-shaped leaves and monoecious flowers of which the staminate forms an ample terminal panicle and the pistillate is in a sessile axillary spike enveloped by numerous bracts — see indian corn
2 plural -s : the fresh styles and stigmas of Indian corn formerly used as a diuretic

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History and Etymology for zea

New Latin, from Greek zea, zeia single-grained wheat; akin to Sanskrit yava barley

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Cite this Entry

“Zea.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/zea. Accessed 24 May. 2022.

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