Catasetum

noun

Cata·​se·​tum
ˌkatəˈsētəm
: a genus of tropical American orchids having globose expanded flowers in racemes and the column provided with a sensitive appendage that when touched releases the pollen suddenly from the stamens see jumping orchid

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from cata- + Latin seta, saeta bristle + New Latin -um; from the appendages of the column

Love words?

You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.

Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:

  • More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
  • Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
  • Advanced search features
  • Ad free!

Dictionary Entries Near Catasetum

Cite this Entry

“Catasetum.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Catasetum. Accessed 8 Nov. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!