Chamaecrista

noun

Cham·​ae·​cris·​ta
in some classifications
: a genus of herbs or low shrubs characterized by sensitive leaves and suddenly and forcibly dehiscing pods, now included in the genus Cassia

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from chamae- + crista (from crista pavonis, literally, peacock's crest, the pre-Linnaean name of a certain plant of the family Leguminosae)

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

Dictionary Entries Near Chamaecrista

Cite this Entry

“Chamaecrista.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Chamaecrista. Accessed 15 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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