Cortaderia

noun

Cor·​ta·​de·​ria

ˌkȯrtəˈdirēə

: a genus of South American grasses with tall stems and large silky panicles see pampas grass

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from American Spanish cortadera plant with sharp-edged leaves (from Spanish, hot chisel, from cortar to cut, from Latin curtare to shorten, from curtus short) + New Latin -ia

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