habenaria

noun

hab·​e·​nar·​ia
ˌhabəˈna(a)rēə
1
capitalized : a very large genus of somewhat glabrous orchids chiefly of the northern hemisphere with usually small flowers having the lip lobed, entire, or fringed and borne in racemes or spikes see fringed orchis, rein orchis
2
plural -s : any plant of the genus Habenaria or its flower

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Latin habena strap, thong (from habēre to have, hold) + New Latin -aria; from the shape of parts of the flowers

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 habenaria

Cite this Entry

“Habenaria.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/habenaria. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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