Melanthaceae

plural noun

Mel·​an·​tha·​ce·​ae

ˌmelənˈthāsēˌē,

ˌmeˌlan-

in some classifications

: a family of monocotyledonous plants (order Liliales) distinguished from the Liliaceae by the septicidal capsule and by the absence of bulbs see melanthium

melanthaceous

¦⸗(ˌ)⸗¦thāshəs

adjective

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, irregular from Melanthium, type genus + -aceae

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!