dioscorea

noun

di·​os·​co·​rea

ˌdīəˈskōrēə

1

capitalized : a genus of mostly tropical twining herbs (family Dioscoreaceae) including the yams and having net-veined leaves and small dioecious flowers

2

plural -s : the dried rhizome of a wild yam (Dioscorea paniculata) formerly used in hepatic disorders and rheumatism

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, irregular from Pedanius Dioscorides, 1st century a.d. Greek physician

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