Cerastium

noun

Ce·​ras·​ti·​um

sə̇ˈraschēəm,

-stē-

: a large genus of low herbs (family Caryophyllaceae) containing the mouse-ear chickweed and the field chickweed and having small white flowers with bifid petals and cylindrical often curved capsules

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Greek kerastēs horned + New Latin -ium

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now