cryptophyte

noun

cryp·​to·​phyte
ˈkriptəˌfīt
plural -s
: a plant that produces its buds underwater or underground on corms, bulbs, or rhizomes
cryptophytic
¦⸗⸗¦fitik
adjective

Word History

Etymology

probably from French, from crypt- + -phyte

First Known Use

1909, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of cryptophyte was in 1909

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 cryptophyte

Cite this Entry

“Cryptophyte.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cryptophyte. Accessed 24 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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