erianthus

noun

er·​i·​an·​thus

ˌerēˈan(t)thəs

1

capitalized : a genus of reedlike grasses having spikes crowded in a panicle clothed with long silky hairs

2

plural -es : any plant of the genus Erianthus

called also plume grass

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Greek eri wool (short for erion, eirion, diminutive of eiros fleece) + New Latin -anthus

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