adderspit

noun

ad·​der·​spit

ˈa-dər-ˌspit

plural -s

: the common brake (Pteridium aquilinum)

Word History

Etymology

so called from the salivalike appearance of the sori

First Known Use

circa 1889, in the meaning defined above

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!