genista

noun

ge·​nis·​ta
jə̇ˈnistə
1
capitalized : a large genus of Old World often spiny shrubs (family Leguminosae) with simple leaves and yellow flowers
2
plural -s : canary broom

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Latin, broom

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of genista was in the 14th century

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 genista

Cite this Entry

“Genista.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/genista. Accessed 23 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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